What should be done if a medication error occurs?

Reporting the error according to facility policy is essential in the event of a medication error. This approach ensures that the incident is documented properly and allows for the necessary steps to be taken to address the issue. By following the facility's established procedures, the healthcare team can assess the situation, evaluate any potential harm to the resident, and take corrective actions as needed.

Additionally, reporting fosters a culture of safety and learning within the healthcare environment, as it encourages consistent monitoring and improvement of medication administration practices. This transparency can help prevent similar errors in the future.

The other options present inappropriate courses of action. Covering up an error can lead to serious repercussions for patient safety and ethical practice. Informing only the resident does not involve the necessary healthcare providers who can assess the outcome and implement solutions. Stopping all medication administration might not be warranted and could jeopardize other residents’ care. Instead, addressing the specific error with proper reporting allows for focused resolutions.