A nurse calculates a medication dose that differs from the amount available in the unit-dose system. After completing the calculation, what is the nurse's best next action to ensure safe medication administration?

A. Have a second nurse verify the calculation before preparing and administering the medication is correct because independent verification is a key safety step when a calculated dose differs from the standard unit-dose preparation. This double-check ensures that the calculation is accurate, reduces the risk of medication errors, and complies with the “five rights” of medication administration (right patient, drug, dose, route, and time). Collaboration with another licensed professional provides an additional safeguard against potentially harmful errors. B. Administer the medication without verification because the calculation was done by a licensed nurse is incorrect because relying solely on one calculation—even by a licensed nurse—ignores the possibility of human error. Verification is a critical safety measure, especially when the dose deviates from the standard available form. C. Discard the medication and request a new dose from the pharmacy without verifying calculations is incorrect because discarding and requesting a new dose may be unnecessary if the calculation is correct. This action delays care and does not prioritize patient safety in the most efficient manner. Verification first ensures accuracy before any further steps. D. Prepare the medication immediately to save time is incorrect because administering a dose without verification risks a medication error, which could result in underdosing or overdosing. Patient safety always takes priority over convenience or speed.