Massachusetts MAP Certification Practice Test

After comparing the health care provider's order to the medication label during administration, what should you do next?

1. File the medication order

2. Compare the label to the medication sheet

3. Check with a supervisor

4. Document your findings

The correct answer is: Compare the label to the medication sheet

The next step after comparing the health care provider's order to the medication label is to compare the label to the medication sheet. This process is essential to ensure that there is consistency and accuracy among all documents related to the medication. By confirming that the label matches the information on the medication sheet, you are reinforcing the safety measures already in place and verifying the correct medication is being administered. With this additional comparison, any discrepancies can be caught before the medication is administered, which is crucial for patient safety. This step helps identify potential errors in medication administration such as dosage, route, or medication type. Only after ensuring that all relevant information aligns should the medication be prepared for administration to the patient. The other options may involve necessary steps but do not follow the logical progression of checking documentation. Filing the medication order comes after administration, checking with a supervisor may be needed if discrepancies are found, and documentation would occur after the medication has been administered, not immediately during the preparation phase.