The physician has asked a nurse to administer a drug intravenously to a patient who is unresponsive. How can the nurse ensure that the drug is administered to the right patient?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The nurse should identify a patient by checking his wristband, which has the patient's name. The nurse should not ask the patient to confirm his name, because some patients, particularly those who are confused or have difficulty hearing, may respond by answering yes. Additionally, this patient is unresponsive. The nurse can obtain the patient's location by asking any other member of the health care staff, but should verify the patient's identity by checking the wristband. The nurse should not rely on the patient's room number alone.