Which action is necessary when preparing to administer medication?

Verifying the patient's identity is essential when preparing to administer medication to ensure that the correct medication is given to the correct individual. This crucial step helps prevent medication errors, which can occur if the wrong patient receives a drug intended for someone else. Identification typically involves asking the patient to state their name and comparing it with the medication administration record (MAR) or the patient’s wristband. This process is part of the "five rights" of medication administration—right patient, right drug, right dose, right route, and right time. Ensuring the right patient receives the right medication drastically reduces the risk of adverse effects and enhances patient safety and care quality.