The nurse gives a medication 1 hour later than scheduled and realizes the delay after administration. The client is stable. What should the nurse do?

A medication error or delay requires client assessment, accurate factual documentation, and reporting according to policy. Altering records or asking another nurse to document false information is unethical and unsafe. Incident reporting supports system improvement.

In-depth explanation

<span class='merci-scenario-label'>Clinical Judgment</span><br>Safety culture uses honest reporting and client assessment after errors.<br><br><span class='merci-scenario-label'>Memory Tip</span><br>Assess, document facts, report.

Clinical scenario

<span class='merci-scenario-label'>Clinical Practice Guide</span><br>Medication safety systems rely on accurate documentation, event reporting, and follow-up assessment.<br><br><span class='merci-scenario-label'>Caution</span><br>Never falsify a medication administration record.

Key concepts

• Medication Error — A preventable medication-related event that can cause or lead to harm.
• Incident Report — A facility safety report used to analyze and reduce future events.
• Factual Documentation — Objective charting of what occurred, assessment findings, and actions taken.