What is the correct action if a medication is administered late?

When a medication is administered late, the appropriate action is to document the incident and inform the supervising nurse. This course of action is essential because it ensures that there is a record of the delay, which is crucial for maintaining accurate medical records. This documentation can be important for monitoring the patient’s treatment plan and ensuring continuity of care.

Informing the supervising nurse allows for appropriate clinical oversight, ensuring that any potential implications of the late administration are addressed. The nurse may need to assess the patient for any adverse effects or adjust the medication schedule accordingly. This collaborative approach promotes patient safety and helps prevent any further medication errors.

In contrast, other options could lead to increased risks for the patient. Administering the next dose immediately could result in double dosing, which poses significant health risks. Ignoring the delay could disrupt the medication regimen and compromise the patient's treatment. Notifying the patient of the delay is helpful for patient communication, but it does not address the clinical responsibilities associated with medication administration and documentation. Therefore, the most responsible and safe action is to document and inform the supervising nurse.