What actions should a nurse take when a medication error occurs?

When a medication error occurs, the nurse's priority is to ensure the patient's safety and well-being. Assessing the patient's condition allows the nurse to identify any immediate effects the error may have caused, which is crucial for determining the necessary interventions. In such situations, notifying the healthcare provider is essential so that further medical actions can be taken if required. Additionally, following the facility's policy for reporting the error is important for maintaining accurate records and improving future practices. This structured approach not only addresses the incident effectively but also fosters a culture of safety within the healthcare environment, ensuring that similar errors are less likely to happen in the future.