What should you do immediately after administering a medication?

Choosing to stay with the client immediately after administering a medication is important to ensure their safety and well-being. Monitoring the client allows you to observe for any immediate adverse reactions or side effects that may occur shortly after medication administration. This action demonstrates a commitment to client care and responsiveness, which is critical in a healthcare setting, particularly when administering medications that could potentially cause discomfort or complications.

While documenting the administration in the Medication Administration Record (MAR) is also essential, it typically occurs after monitoring the client for any immediate effects. Preparing the next client's medication or checking the pharmacy label, while important tasks in the medication administration process, are secondary to the immediate responsibility of ensuring the client’s safety post-administration. Ultimately, staying with the client allows for a focused observation period right after the medication is given, which is crucial for effective patient monitoring and care.