What is the purpose of dose verification?

The purpose of dose verification is primarily to ensure that the correct medication dosage is given to the patient. This step is crucial in medication administration because administering an incorrect dose can lead to serious adverse effects or therapeutic failure. By verifying the dosage before administration, healthcare providers can confirm that they are delivering the intended amount, which is essential for patient safety and effective treatment outcomes. This process involves checking the prescribed dose against the medication that is prepared to ensure alignment with the physician's orders and established standards of care.

While confirming the method of administration, documenting when medication is given, and identifying potential side effects are important aspects of medication management, they do not specifically address the critical task of verifying that the correct dose is being administered, which directly impacts patient safety and health.