Before connecting a premixed opioid or sedative bag, read the drug, concentration, patient label and expiry, and use an independent check. If any detail is inconsistent, do not use the bag and return it for pharmacy review.
This habit catches labelling and dilution errors regardless of supplier.
- Read drug name, concentration and expiry on every bag.
- Use an independent second check for high-risk infusions.
- Quarantine and report any inconsistent label.
- Do not rely on one date if more than one is printed.
Why it matters
Label errors on high-risk infusions are a recognised route to medication harm.
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