Which task is NOT part of the drug administration process in a hospital?

The process of drug administration in a hospital involves a series of critical tasks to ensure that patients receive their medications safely and effectively. Among these tasks, prescribing the medication is not part of the drug administration process; instead, it falls under the responsibilities of healthcare providers, such as physicians or advanced practice nurses.

When it comes to administering medication, healthcare professionals focus on tasks like preparing the medication according to a specific order, verifying the medication for the correct patient, and recording the time the medication was given. These functions are essential to confirm that the right drug is delivered to the right patient at the right time, which is a fundamental aspect of patient safety in a healthcare setting.

Prescribing is distinct from administration; it involves the clinical decision-making process of determining what medication is appropriate for a patient, including dosage and duration of treatment. Once a healthcare provider has issued a prescription, it is then upon pharmacists and nursing staff to ensure the medication is prepared, verified, and administered correctly. This delineation of roles and responsibilities is critical in maintaining a safe and effective medication management system in the hospital.