How should medications that look different from their usual appearance be handled?

When encountering medications that look different from their usual appearance, the appropriate course of action is to notify the pharmacy and confirm the medication before administering it. This step is crucial for ensuring patient safety and preventing potential medication errors. Variations in appearance can result from factors such as changes in manufacturers, formulation updates, or even incorrect medications being dispensed. Confirming the medication helps to verify that it is indeed the correct drug intended for that patient and that it has not been substituted or influenced by improper handling or storage conditions.

This procedure upholds the principles of safe medication management, emphasizing the importance of thorough verification and professional communication, thereby minimizing risks associated with medication administration.