If you find a discrepancy in a patient's name on the requisition and armband, what should you do?

When encountering a discrepancy in a patient's name on the requisition and armband, the best course of action is to visit with your manager for verification. This approach emphasizes the importance of maintaining patient safety and adhering to established protocols in healthcare settings. Discrepancies in patient identification can lead to serious medical errors, such as administering the wrong treatment or procedure to the wrong patient.

By involving a manager, you ensure that the situation is assessed through the proper channels and you receive guidance on how to resolve the issue according to institutional policies. This step allows for oversight, ensuring that any actions taken are compliant with healthcare regulations and standards.

Confirming name accuracy with the patient is a critical step as well; however, without the authority to make final decisions about discrepancies, it is best to utilize managerial support. Ignoring the discrepancy or attempting to update information in the system independently can lead to greater risks, including compromising the integrity of patient records and safety. Seeking managerial assistance provides a systematic and safe resolution to discrepancies in patient identification.