When drawing up a vaccine, what should you verify first?

Verifying the correct type and name of the vaccine is essential because it ensures that the right vaccine is being administered to the patient, matching the specific immunization requirement. This is critical in preventing vaccine errors, which can lead to adverse effects or ineffective immunization against specific diseases. Each vaccine has distinct indications, dosing schedules, formulations, and potential side effects; thus, confirming the vaccine type guarantees that the healthcare provider is adhering to established immunization protocols.

While other factors, such as the patient's medical history, needle size, and the expiration date of the vial, are also important considerations in the vaccination process, they follow after confirming that the right vaccine is chosen for administration. Ensuring the selection of the correct vaccine is the foundational step before moving on to checking other relevant details necessary for a safe and effective immunization experience.