What is the primary focus during the second check of medication administration?

The primary focus during the second check of medication administration is to ensure that the medication being prepared matches what is documented on the medication administration record (MAR). This involves counting the medication to confirm the correct dosage and verifying that the medication aligns with what is prescribed for the patient. This step is crucial for maintaining medication accuracy and preventing errors, as it helps to catch any discrepancies between the medication and the documentation before administration occurs.

While confirming patient identity is essential during the medication administration process, it is typically the focus of the first check or the preparation phase. Understanding side effects is important for monitoring and educating patients but is not the immediate focus during the second check. Observing vital signs is also an important part of patient care, usually following administration, rather than being a focus during the checking process. The second check primarily ensures safety and efficacy through careful verification of the medication against the documentation.