What should the nurse aide do if they discover a client has been given the wrong medication?

Reporting the issue to the nurse immediately is the appropriate action for a nurse aide to take upon discovering that a client has been given the wrong medication. This step is crucial because it ensures that a licensed nurse, who has the training and authority to handle medication errors, is made aware of the situation as soon as possible.

By promptly notifying the nurse, the aide facilitates a timely assessment of the patient's condition and the potential effects of the incorrect medication. The nurse can then take the necessary steps to address the error, which may include monitoring the client for adverse reactions, administering the correct medication, or implementing other appropriate interventions.

Taking independent actions, such as correcting the dosage themselves or changing the medication before the nurse arrives, could lead to further complications and potential harm to the patient, as nurse aides do not have the authority to alter medication regimens. Moreover, quietly informing the client without notifying the healthcare team could cause confusion and delays in treatment, placing the client's health at risk.