In the case of a nurse failing to document medication administration, what might this lead to?

The failure to document medication administration can significantly impact patient safety and the continuity of care. When documentation is lacking, it is possible that a patient might receive a double dose of medication. This occurs when healthcare providers are unaware that a medication has already been administered due to the absence of records. If multiple staff members are involved in the patient's care, one might mistakenly administer a dose, thinking that it has not yet been given, thus leading to potential medication errors and adverse effects for the patient.

In contrast, the other options suggest outcomes that do not align with the implications of poor documentation. A delay in medical treatment could be a concern, but if more medication is administered, it typically poses a more immediate risk to the patient than a delay would. The idea that documentation failures lead to improvements in patient care is inherently contradictory, as proper documentation is essential for ensuring that care is coherent and safe. Lastly, a lack of documentation does not inherently increase hospital staff; in fact, it may lead to confusion and miscommunication among existing staff, which can compromise care rather than enhance it.

In summary, the potential for a patient to receive a double dose of medication is a direct consequence of inadequate documentation, highlighting the critical importance of accurately recording medication administration in preventing harm