What is the first action in responding to a medication error?

The first action in responding to a medication error is to assess the client's condition. This is crucial because the priority in nursing care is always the safety and well-being of the patient. By assessing the client's condition, the nurse can determine if the error has caused any harm or if the patient shows any signs of adverse reactions to the medication that was administered incorrectly. This assessment allows for prompt intervention, which can be critical in managing any potential complications and ensuring the patient receives appropriate care.

Once the patient's current status is assessed, the nurse can then proceed with the necessary notifications and documentation regarding the error and engage other members of the healthcare team to address any further needs of the patient. Immediate assessment takes precedence to ensure that the patient's safety is the primary concern before other actions are taken.