Double checking should be employed in situations that carry a high risk for patient harm. Common scenarios include:
Medication administration: Verifying the correct drug, dose, patient, route, and time. Blood transfusions: Ensuring the right blood type and compatibility. High-alert medications: Checking drugs with a high risk of causing significant harm if used incorrectly, such as insulin or chemotherapy agents. Intravenous (IV) therapy: Confirming the correct IV fluids and rates. Surgical procedures: Verifying the correct patient, site, and procedure.
