When administering medication, what is the second step after scanning the patient's wristband?

The second step after scanning the patient's wristband is to scan the medication barcode. This verification process is crucial in ensuring that the correct medication is being administered to the right patient. By scanning the patient's wristband, you confirm their identity; by subsequently scanning the medication barcode, you are checking that the medication matches what is prescribed for that patient.

This step helps to prevent medication errors by cross-referencing the patient's specific medication regimen with what is being administered. It serves as an additional layer of safety, allowing healthcare providers to ensure that the correct dosage and medication are being used.

The other options do not follow the appropriate sequence necessary for safe medication administration. Administering the medication without scanning it first does not provide assurance that it is the correct medication. Using the MAR Action Given typically occurs after the medication has been administered to document the action taken, and recording the output is part of post-administration workflows, which occur after confirming that the medication has been given correctly.