Which essential actions should the nurse perform before giving routine medications to a patient? Select all that apply.

Choice A rationale Scanning the patient's ID band confirms the identity of the patient using two identifiers, a crucial step in the "five rights" of medication administration to ensure the drug is given to the correct individual and to integrate with electronic health records. Choice B rationale Calling the patient's name three times is not a standard, evidence-based procedure for medication safety; standard protocol requires using at least two forms of patient identification (e.g., name, date of birth, medical record number). Choice C rationale Taking a screenshot of a medication order is a deviation from proper documentation and is not an essential action; the order must be viewed and verified within the secure electronic health record (EHR) or patient chart. Choice D rationale Assessing the patient prior to administration is essential to establish a baseline, determine if the medication is still appropriate based on the patient's current condition (e.g., vital signs, lab values), and check for contraindications. Choice E rationale Verifying medication allergies is a mandatory safety step to prevent life-threatening anaphylactic or hypersensitivity reactions, aligning with the "right patient" and "right drug" components of medication safety. Choice F rationale Performing hand hygiene (handwashing or alcohol-based hand rub) is necessary immediately before patient contact and medication preparation to comply with infection control guidelines and prevent the transmission of microorganisms.