What is the first step a CRMA must take in the medication administration process?

The first step a CRMA must take in the medication administration process is to verify the five rights of medication administration. This crucial step ensures the safe and effective delivery of medication to residents by confirming that the right resident receives the right medication, in the right dose, at the right time, and via the right route.

This verification process serves as a foundational safety measure to prevent medication errors, which can lead to serious consequences for residents. By prioritizing the five rights at the outset, the CRMA establishes a secure framework for the subsequent actions in the medication administration process. Ensuring that these rights are checked before any medication is prepared or administered helps maintain compliance with best practices in healthcare.