What are the Six Rights of medication administration?

• A. Right patient, right drug, right dose, right route, right time
• B. Right patient, right drug, right dose, right route, right time, and right documentation
• C. Right patient, right drug, right dose, right time, and right documentation
• D. Right patient, right drug, right dose, right route, right time, and right consent

Answer: (B)

The Six Rights of medication administration emphasize verifying key elements before giving a drug to ensure safety: the right patient, the right drug, the right dose, the right route, the right time, and the right documentation. Documentation is essential because it records exactly what was given, when, by whom, and any observations or reactions. This creates a clear, shareable record that supports safe handoffs, helps prevent double-dosing or missed doses, and provides a legal and quality-check trail.

The other options omit documentation, or add elements that aren’t part of the standard six, such as consent. While informed consent is important for treatment decisions, it isn’t one of the medication administration rights.