When preparing to administer a medication, what should you check on the label?

The choice highlighting the importance of verifying the patient's name, medication name, dose, route, and expiration date on the label is critical in medication administration. This comprehensive check ensures patient safety and adherence to the 'five rights' of medication administration: right patient, right medication, right dose, right route, and right time.

By confirming the patient's name, healthcare professionals can ensure that the correct individual is receiving the medication, minimizing the risk of administering the wrong medication. Checking the medication name and dose ensures that the correct medication is given in the proper amount, which is vital for efficacy and avoiding potential overdose or underdose scenarios. The route indicates how the medication should be administered—whether orally, intravenously, or through another method. Finally, verifying the expiration date is essential to ensure that the medication is safe and effective, as expired medications may lose potency or even become harmful.

Other choices do not encompass the full range of checks required for safe medication administration, which can lead to potential risks for the patient.