The 5 Rs of injection are a set of guidelines used in healthcare to ensure safe and accurate medication administration. These guidelines help to reduce medication errors and harm to patients. The 5 Rs are:
- Right patient: Verifying the patient's identity using two identifiers, such as name and date of birth, to ensure the medication is given to the correct person.
- Right drug: Confirming that the medication being prepared is the one prescribed by the doctor. This includes checking the medication name, dosage, and form.
- Right dose: Verifying that the correct amount of medication is being given to the patient. This involves double-checking the prescribed dosage and ensuring the medication is measured accurately.
- Right route: Ensuring that the medication is being given through the correct method, such as intravenously, intramuscularly, or subcutaneously, as prescribed by the doctor.
- Right time: Checking that the medication is being given at the appropriate time, based on the doctor's instructions and the patient's individual needs.
Following these five Rs is essential for safe medication administration. By adhering to these guidelines, healthcare professionals can minimize the risk of medication errors and ensure patient safety.
