What should be done before administering any IV medication?

Before administering any IV medication, it is essential to check for allergies. This step is crucial because patients may have adverse reactions to specific medications, which can lead to serious complications, including anaphylaxis. Knowing a patient's allergies allows the healthcare provider to avoid administering any medications that could trigger an allergic reaction, ensuring patient safety and minimizing risks during treatment.

While confirming the patient’s insurance, reviewing the family history, and assessing nutritional status are important aspects of patient care, they do not directly pertain to the immediate safety of administering IV medications. Ensuring the patient's safety in relation to medication administration takes precedence, making checking for allergies a critical step in the process.