What should be done to verify the correct dose of digoxin before administration?

To ensure the safe administration of digoxin, it is critical to have a second registered nurse check the dose and volume before administration. This practice is rooted in the principles of medication safety to prevent errors that could arise from miscalculations or misunderstandings regarding dosing. Digoxin has a narrow therapeutic index, meaning that the difference between a therapeutic dose and a toxic dose is small; therefore, double-checking helps to minimize the risk of potential adverse effects.

Having a second RN verify the medication adds an additional layer of safety by allowing for independent verification of the dose and volume against the prescriber’s orders, including checking factors like the patient’s specific needs and any adjustments that may be necessary. This step is in line with the best practices in medication administration where collaboration and verification are key components in promoting patient safety.

Simply checking the medication against the patient's chart may not catch discrepancies that could lead to errors, and automatically administering the prescribed dose does not provide any safeguards against potential mistakes. Consulting the pharmacy regarding the medication can be useful but is not a substitute for directly verifying the dose with a second healthcare professional just before administration. Hence, involving another registered nurse is essential for ensuring that the dose is correct and safe for the patient.