A nurse discovers that the physician has prescribed a higher than recommended dose of a medication for a client. Which is the most appropriate action for the nurse to take?
give the recommended dose of the medication based on the client's diagnosis
Hold the ordered dose & document their rationale regarding the dose.
Call the pharmacy to report a mistake
Call the prescribing physician to clarify the order
The Correct Answer is D
D. Calling the prescribing physician to clarify the order is the most appropriate action in this situation. Direct communication with the physician allows the nurse to express concerns, seek clarification, and ensure that the medication order is appropriate and safe for the client.
A. Administering a medication at a higher than recommended dose could potentially harm the client and is not in line with safe medication administration practices. It's essential to follow the established guidelines and recommendations for medication dosing to avoid adverse effects or complications.
B. Holding the ordered dose and documenting the rationale is an appropriate initial action. This allows the nurse to pause the administration of the medication, prevent potential harm to the client, and provide a clear record of the decision-making process. Holding the dose also provides an opportunity for further clarification with the prescribing physician.
C. While reporting a mistake to the pharmacy is important, it may not be the most immediate action to take when dealing with a higher than recommended dose of medication. Direct communication with the prescribing physician is necessary to clarify the order and ensure appropriate action is taken promptly.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
B. Physical therapy, also known as physiotherapy, is a discipline focused on the preservation, enhancement, or restoration of movement and physical function. Physical therapists assess and treat individuals with musculoskeletal, neuromuscular, cardiovascular, and other conditions to improve mobility, strength, flexibility, balance, and coordination through therapeutic exercises, manual therapy techniques, and functional training.
A. Respiratory therapy focuses on the assessment, treatment, and management of patients with respiratory and cardiopulmonary disorders. Respiratory therapists specialize in providing interventions such as oxygen therapy, mechanical ventilation, and pulmonary rehabilitation to optimize respiratory function and improve breathing.
C. Speech therapy and language pathology, also known as speech-language pathology (SLP), is a discipline that focuses on the assessment and treatment of communication disorders, swallowing difficulties (dysphagia), and cognitive-communication impairments. Speech-language pathologists assess and treat individuals with speech sound disorders, language delays, voice disorders, fluency disorders (stuttering), and communication difficulties associated with neurological conditions or injuries.
D. Occupational therapy is a discipline focused on promoting health and well-being through meaningful engagement in daily activities (occupations). Occupational therapists assess and treat individuals of all ages who are experiencing physical, cognitive, psychosocial, or sensory impairments that affect their ability to participate in activities of daily living (ADLs), work, leisure, education, and social participation. Occupational therapy interventions aim to enhance independence, functional performance, and quality of life.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Changing the client's arm position, such as raising or lowering it, could potentially improve flow by altering the gravitational pull on the IV solution. For example, raising the arm could increase flow due to increased pressure, while lowering it could decrease flow. However, this approach may not always be effective and should be done cautiously to avoid discomfort or compromising the integrity of the IV site.
B. Using an infusion pump can help regulate the flow rate of the IV solution more accurately compared to gravity alone. However, if the IV is running slowly due to factors unrelated to the infusion rate setting, such as a partial blockage or resistance in the IV line, using an infusion pump may not necessarily improve the flow rate.
C. Lowering the height of the IV pole can increase the gravitational force acting on the IV solution, potentially improving flow. This adjustment can help overcome minor obstructions in the IV line and facilitate better flow. However, it should be done cautiously to avoid excessive pressure on the IV site or causing discomfort to the client.
D. Opening the clamp fully for an extended period is not a recommended approach. It could lead to rapid infusion or an excessive flow rate, increasing the risk of complications such as fluid overload or vein irritation. Additionally, this action does not address the underlying reason for the slow flow rate and may not effectively resolve the issue.
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