Which practice is essential when administering high-risk medications?

Using an electronic infusion pump is essential when administering high-risk medications because these pumps allow for precise control over the rate and volume of medication delivered to the patient. High-risk medications often have narrow therapeutic indices, meaning there is a small margin between an effective dose and a potentially harmful dose.

The use of an electronic infusion pump helps to minimize the risk of medication errors that can occur with manual administration. These pumps can be programmed to deliver specific dosages, and they often include safety features such as alarms for occlusions or changes in flow rates, which further enhance patient safety. Additionally, this technology can provide critical data regarding the medication's delivery and allow for rapid response if issues arise.

In contrast, other methods of administration such as the oral route may not provide the necessary precision for high-risk medications, as absorption can vary significantly. Monitoring vital signs every hour is important for patient safety but does not directly affect the administration process itself. Using a standard IV drip may increase the risk of delivering incorrect doses due to variability in flow rates and equipment handling, which is why electronic pumps are preferred in high-risk scenarios.