Why is it important to assess a patient's vital signs before administering certain medications?

Assessing a patient's vital signs before administering certain medications is critical, particularly because some medications can directly influence vital signs such as heart rate, blood pressure, or respiratory rate. By checking these signs beforehand, healthcare professionals can identify any pre-existing conditions or abnormalities that may contraindicate the use of a particular medication or necessitate adjustments in dosage. For instance, administering a medication that lowers blood pressure to a patient who already has low blood pressure could potentially lead to serious complications. Therefore, this process is essential for ensuring patient safety and guiding appropriate care decisions.