What action should a nurse take to verify a client’s identity before administering medications?

The most effective action for a nurse to take in verifying a client’s identity before administering medications is to check the client's wristband. This method allows for immediate access to the client’s official identification information, which typically includes their name, date of birth, and medical record number. By using the wristband, the nurse can confirm that the medication is being administered to the correct individual, thereby significantly reducing the risk of medication errors.

The wristband also provides a standardized method of identification that aligns with hospital protocols, ensuring consistency across care providers. This approach is typically part of a two or three-step verification process, where the nurse will also cross-reference the client’s information with the medication administration record.

While asking the client for their last name can provide some verification, it is less reliable since clients may have memory issues or may not recall their full name accurately, especially in high-stress situations or for those with cognitive impairments. Scanning the facility identification board is not a direct verification method and may lack specific, relevant details about the individual client. Reviewing the medical record for the client's photo is also not practical as it is not typically available at the moment of medication administration, and further, privacy regulations may inhibit access. Overall, checking the wristband is a