A nurse is preparing to administer a 'high-alert' medication such as heparin or insulin. What additional safety measure is recommended?

HIGH-ALERT medications (those with a heightened risk of causing significant harm if used in error) — such as HEPARIN, INSULIN, opioids, chemotherapy, and concentrated electrolytes (e.g., potassium chloride) — require additional safeguards, including an INDEPENDENT DOUBLE-CHECK by a SECOND NURSE who independently verifies the medication, dose, and calculation before administration. NCLEX safe care/medication safety. Other safeguards: standardized concentrations, special labeling, and protocols. The independent double-check catches errors before they reach the client. Insulin and heparin (anticoagulants) are classic high-alert drugs. Knowing high-alert meds require extra verification (independent double-check) is a tested NCLEX safety concept.