While discussing a client’s medication history, the client tells the n

While discussing a client’s medication history, the client tells the nurse that she thinks she is al-lergic to a particular type of medication. Which of the following nursing actions has priority in this situation?

1. Note the allergy on the client’s Kardex.
2. Inform the provider of the client’s possible allergy.
3. Review the client’s medical record for confirmation of the allergy.
4. Tell the client to have all medications identified before taking them.

ANSWER

ANS: 3
The medical record is a valuable tool for checking the consistency and similarities of personal observations. Information such as a history of allergic reactions would be found in the medical record. Noting the allergy on the client’s Kardex would be appropriate only after the allergy is confirmed; although if there was true concern, a notation of a possible allergy should be noted on the medication record. Informing the provider of the client’s possible allergy would be appropri-ate after the medical record was reviewed and no mention of the allergy was confirmed or de-nied. While telling the client to have all medications identified before taking them is a safety measure appropriate for all clients, it is not the priority in this situation.