In preparing two different medications from two vials, the nurse must:

In preparing two different medications from two vials, the nurse must:

1. Inject fluid from one vial into the other
2. Uncap the syringe and wipe the needle with an alcohol preparation before insert-ing into either vial
3. Discard the medication from vial number 2 if medication from vial number 1 is pushed into it
4. Insert air into the first vial, but not the second vial

ANSWER

ANS: 3
If a vial becomes contaminated with another medication, it should be discarded. Fluid from one vial should not be injected into another, as it would contaminate the second vial. The needle should not be wiped with alcohol. It is considered sterile and does not require to be wiped with alcohol. Wiping the needle would place the nurse at risk for a needle stick. Air should be inserted into both vials, making sure the needle does not touch the solution in the first vial.