For a patient receiving multiple medications, what should the nurse always check first?

The first thing a nurse should check for a patient receiving multiple medications is the allergy history. This is crucial because knowing a patient's allergies can help prevent adverse drug reactions, which can be life-threatening. Medications often contain various components, some of which may trigger allergic responses. Even if a medication is appropriate for a patient's condition, it could still lead to an allergic reaction if the patient has a known sensitivity.

While evaluating medication expiration dates, dosage calculations, and routes of administration are certainly important steps in medication safety, the priority is always to ensure that the patient is not at risk due to allergies. Addressing potential allergic reactions first can significantly impact a patient's safety and overall outcomes.