Which statement about adverse reactions reporting is correct?

• A. Report the reaction to the prescriber and monitor the patient.
• B. Ignore unless life-threatening.
• C. Stop all medications immediately.
• D. Only document in the patient's chart.

Answer: (A)

When a suspected adverse drug reaction occurs, the key practice is to communicate it to the prescriber and keep a close watch on the patient. This immediate communication allows the clinician to assess whether the reaction is likely drug-related, decide on stopping or adjusting therapy, and implement safer alternatives if needed. It also supports ongoing patient safety through monitoring for symptom changes, potential interactions, or escalation.

Ignoring non–life-threatening reactions delays appropriate action and undermines safety, because many ADRs inform changes in therapy even if they aren’t severe at first. Stopping all medications right away isn’t appropriate; therapy should be evaluated case by case to determine what is essential and what can be altered. Merely documenting in the chart doesn’t notify the prescriber or others who may need to act, and it doesn’t contribute to broader safety reporting or monitoring.