A patient notes that she already took the medication.

• A. Discontinue the medication
• B. Check the MAR
• C. Notify the pharmacist
• D. Increase the dose next time

Answer: (B)

Verifying what has already been given is essential for safe medication administration. When a patient says she already took the medication, the first step is to check the Medication Administration Record (MAR) to confirm whether that dose was documented, the exact time it was given, and what the current order specifies. This helps prevent accidentally giving a second dose, ensures the patient’s report matches the chart, and guides the next action—whether to withhold the dose or proceed as ordered.

If the MAR shows the dose was already given, you would not administer it again and you’d document the encounter appropriately. If the MAR shows the dose is due, you can administer it as ordered after any necessary checks. If there’s a discrepancy between the patient’s report and the MAR, follow your facility’s protocol and involve the prescriber or pharmacist as needed. Increasing the dose or discontinuing the medication without first verifying the history and orders would be inappropriate.