If a nurse realizes that nifedipine was administered to the wrong client, what is the priority nursing action?

In the event of a medication error, the priority nursing action is to assess the patient's condition before taking further steps. Checking the client's vital signs is crucial because it allows the nurse to determine if the patient is exhibiting any adverse effects or signs of potential complications resulting from the administration of nifedipine. This medication is a calcium channel blocker commonly used to manage hypertension and angina, and it can cause changes in heart rate and blood pressure. Therefore, assessing vital signs helps in identifying immediate safety concerns and provides critical information to guide further interventions.

Once the patient's status has been assessed, the nurse can then take appropriate action, such as notifying the physician, documenting the error, or providing the correct medication based on the client's current condition. However, prioritizing the client's safety and health status through vital sign assessment is essential in this scenario.