NURS 3100 Exam 1 Practice

A nurse is preparing to administer a client's medications. Which of the following is the most important to assess first?

1. Assess the patient's developmental level

2. Assess the patient's disease process

3. Assess the patient's learning needs

4. Assess the patient's medical history

The correct answer is: Assess the patient's developmental level

A good way to determine the correct answer is by looking at what is most time-sensitive and necessary for the safe and effective administration of medication. Out of the given options, assessing the patient's developmental level is the first and most important step. This is because a patient's developmental level can affect how they respond to medication, potential side effects, and the appropriate dosage and administration method. Option B is incorrect because it is important, but not the most critical aspect to assess first. Assessing the patient's disease process can help determine the appropriate medication, but the patient's developmental level is more essential. Option C is incorrect because while assessing the patient's learning needs is important, it is not the most crucial factor for administering medication. Finally, option D is incorrect because while the patient's medical history is important, it is not the first and most important aspect to assess when preparing to administer medications.