What must an EMS provider do before administering medication to a patient?

Before administering medication to a patient, it is crucial for an EMS provider to confirm medication indications and contraindications. This step ensures that the medication is appropriate for the patient's specific medical condition and that it will not lead to harmful side effects due to any existing health issues, allergies, or interactions with other medications the patient may be taking.

Understanding indications involves knowing when a medication should be given based on the patient's symptoms or medical history. Conversely, recognizing contraindications means being aware of any circumstances under which the medication would not be advisable, such as existing health conditions or potential negative interactions with other medications. This knowledge not only prioritizes patient safety but is also a fundamental part of providing effective emergency care.

While gathering patient consent is important, there are instances in emergency medicine where consent may not be obtainable or may be implied due to the patient's condition. Documenting previous medications is valuable in building a comprehensive patient history but does not directly ensure the medication administered will be safe or effective for the current situation. Consulting with an on-call physician can be appropriate in some scenarios, particularly in complex cases, but confirming the indications and contraindications is a critical and immediate responsibility of the EMS provider before any medication administration.