What it means
The two people work separately: each checks the order, the drug, the dose calculation, the pump settings and the client, then they compare. Because the second person is not led by the first, an error is more likely to be caught. Facilities require it for selected high-alert medications, such as insulin infusions, heparin, chemotherapy, PCA pumps and some pediatric doses. ISMP notes it is not always the best fix, so it is used where it adds the most.
For the nurse
Do not simply look at the other nurse's work and agree; do the check yourself from the start, and document it as policy requires.
At a glance
| Also written | independent double-check, independent double checks |
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Related terms
insulin
A hormone made by the pancreas that lets the body's cells take in glucose, also made as a medicine.
heparin
An anticoagulant drug, given by injection or IV, that keeps blood clots from forming or growing.
high-alert medication
A drug that can cause serious harm to a client if it is used in error; also called a high-risk medication.
tall man lettering
Writing parts of look-alike drug names in capital letters so the difference between them stands out.