What should a veterinary technician do before administering a drug?

Reading the drug label three times before administering a drug is a critical step for veterinary technicians to ensure patient safety and proper medication administration. The drug label contains essential information, including the drug's name, dosage, route of administration, indications, contraindications, and potential side effects. By reviewing the label multiple times, the technician can confirm the correct medication, verify that it matches the veterinary prescription, and ensure that the dosage is appropriate for the specific patient.

This process helps prevent medication errors such as administering the wrong drug or incorrect dosage, which can have serious consequences for the animal's health. It also reinforces the understanding of the medication's intended use and precautions, enabling the technician to provide accurate information to the veterinarian or the pet owner if needed. Attention to detail in reading the drug label is a fundamental practice that upholds the standards of veterinary care and promotes the well-being of the animals being treated.