What is the first step for a nurse when managing a medication message in the In Basket?

The first step for a nurse when managing a medication message in the In Basket is to read the new message. This is crucial because the nurse needs to understand the content and context of the message before taking any further action. Reading the message allows the nurse to identify key details related to the medication orders, including instructions, patient information, and any potential issues or clarifications needed.

By starting with reading the new message, the nurse can gather all the relevant information that will inform subsequent actions, such as assessing whether to dispense the medication or consult the patient’s chart. This step ensures that the nurse's response is informed and appropriate, ultimately leading to safer medication management practices. Skipping this step could result in misunderstandings or errors in medication administration.