Question

question 11

to prevent medication errors, which of the following should be written out instead of abbreviated on a prescription?

magnesium sulfate
sodium chloride
ferrous sulfate
potassium chloride

Explanation:

Identify error-prone chemical abbreviations

Chemical symbols like \( \text{MgSO}_4 \) (magnesium sulfate) and \( \text{MSO}_4 \) (morphine sulfate) are easily confused with each other, leading to critical medication errors.

Apply safety guidelines

According to the Institute for Safe Medication Practices (ISMP) and The Joint Commission's "Do Not Use" list, magnesium sulfate must be written out in full rather than abbreviated as \( \text{MgSO}_4 \).

Evaluate other options

Common electrolytes and minerals like sodium chloride (\( \text{NaCl} \)), ferrous sulfate (\( \text{FeSO}_4 \)), and potassium chloride (\( \text{KCl} \)) are not on the high-alert "Do Not Use" abbreviation lists in the same manner as magnesium sulfate.

Answer:

• Magnesium sulfate (Correct answer)
• Sodium chloride
• Ferrous sulfate
• Potassium chloride