VATI Pharmacology 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

Administering clonidine instead of clonazepam suggests a potential error, as these medications serve different purposes and have different pharmacological effects. Clonidine is primarily used to manage hypertension and has sedative properties, while clonazepam is a benzodiazepine frequently used to treat anxiety or seizure disorders.

Given this situation, reviewing the adverse effects of clonidine would be an important step. Clonidine can have side effects such as hypotension, bradycardia, sedation, and dry mouth, among others. Understanding these potential adverse effects is crucial for monitoring the patient’s condition after the medication error has occurred. This knowledge will inform the nurse's subsequent actions, including assessing vital signs and closely observing the patient for any negative reactions related to the incorrect medication administration.

The next logical steps after reviewing the adverse effects would typically include checking the patient's blood pressure to assess for any signs of hypotension and notifying the physician about the medication error for further instructions. Documenting the administration is also essential for proper medical records, but ensuring patient safety by understanding the effects of the mistakenly administered medication takes priority.