Identifying a Client

Identifying clients correctly is an important safety measure in all health facilities. This simple but vital procedure reduces the risk of harm to clients. Every year medication and charting errors and incorrect procedures occur because of mistaken identity; healthcare workers inadvertently mistake one client for another.

Performing the routine task of identifying a client using three identification checks prior to commencing any procedure provides a stop point for staff and adds a valuable layer of protection for the client. Checking of the client’s identity must be performed at the beginning of a care episode and again at each client intervention.