What should be verified if a CMT is preparing a high-alert medication?

When preparing high-alert medications, it is essential for the CMT to have a double-check by another qualified staff member. High-alert medications are those that have a heightened risk of causing significant harm if they are used in error. By involving another qualified individual in the verification process, an additional layer of safety is created, reducing the chance of mistakes in dosing, administration, or identification of the medication. This collaborative practice is a critical component of medication safety protocols and helps ensure adherence to best practices in medication administration.

In contrast, relying on a single verification by the CMT alone, focusing solely on the expiration date, or just checking the color and shape of the medication do not provide adequate assurance against potential errors. Each of these options lacks the comprehensive safety measures required for handling high-alert medications, where the consequences of errors can be severe.