What must a nurse do before administering a medication that has a known allergy?

A nurse must confirm the allergy and assess for alternative treatments before administering a medication with a known allergy to ensure the patient's safety. This process involves verifying the patient's reported allergy, understanding the specific reaction they have experienced, and evaluating potential alternatives that can achieve the same therapeutic outcome without posing a risk to the patient.

By confirming the allergy, the nurse acknowledges the patient's medical history and avoids repeating past adverse reactions. This step is crucial in preventing potential harm and ensuring patient safety. If the allergy is confirmed, the nurse can then collaborate with the healthcare team to identify alternative medications or interventions that are effective and safe for the patient.

This approach prioritizes patient care and safety, adhering to ethical and legal standards in nursing practice. Addressing known allergies is vital in medication administration, as it significantly reduces the risk of allergic reactions, which can lead to severe complications.