What is the "rule of three" when it comes to medication administration?

The "rule of three" in medication administration refers to the practice of comparing three critical sources of information to ensure safe and accurate medication delivery. These three sources include the licensed practitioner's order, the medication administration record (MAR), and the pharmacy label. This method is essential for confirming the correct medication, dosage, administration route, and timing. By cross-referencing these three elements, healthcare providers can reduce the risk of medication errors, ensuring that the right patient receives the right medication in the right way.

The other choices don't accurately represent the concept known as the "rule of three." Determining the next prescribed medication is not relevant to this rule, nor is it about administering three medications simultaneously or setting a maximum limit on medications a patient can have. The focus of the "rule of three" is specifically on the verification process to maintain patient safety during medication administration.