What should you do to verify an inmate's identity before giving medication?

To verify an inmate's identity before administering medication, identifying the inmate by armband is crucial for ensuring the correct individual receives the proper treatment. Armbands typically contain important identification information such as the inmate's name, identification number, and other pertinent details. This method is a reliable way to confirm identity in a controlled environment like a correctional facility, where multiple individuals may have similar names or faces.

Using an armband minimizes the chances of error that can arise from asking an inmate their name, as some may have difficulty recalling specific details or may provide false information. Checking prison records can be time-consuming and may not provide immediate verification at the moment of medication administration. Consulting a supervisor is advisable in certain situations but does not directly address the immediate need to confirm identity prior to medication distribution. Therefore, utilizing the armband system stands out as the best practice in this context.