If a patient’s stated name differs from that on their armband, what should the PCA do next?

When a patient's stated name differs from what is indicated on their armband, the best course of action is to contact the registered nurse (RN). This step is crucial as it addresses a potential identification error which can lead to serious risks concerning patient safety, medication administration, and overall care. The RN is in a position to verify the correct identity of the patient through established protocols and can make any necessary changes or assessments to ensure proper care is being delivered.

Correct procedure dictates that staff members must escalate concerns about discrepancies to ensure the integrity of patient identification systems. This engagement not only adheres to safety protocols but also reinforces the collaboration among healthcare providers to uphold the highest standards of patient care. Other actions, such as changing the armband or ignoring the discrepancy, would not adequately address the potential risks associated with misidentification. Engaging the patient for more information, while useful, is secondary to ensuring that the clinical oversight needed is established through professional channels.