The physician orders 350,000 units of Penicillin G IM now for a patient with a positive strep infection.

What is the most appropriate diluent amount for this patient? See LABEL #1 (Penicillin G)

Choice A rationale

While documentation can be reviewed by providers, its primary purpose is not to monitor nurses' performance. Monitoring occurs through various quality assurance processes, and documentation serves a broader range of functions beyond individual nurse oversight.

Choice B rationale

Documentation acts as a central communication hub for all members of the healthcare team, including physicians, nurses, therapists, and other specialists. It ensures continuity of care by providing a shared understanding of the client's condition, treatments, and responses, facilitating informed decision-making and collaboration.

Choice C rationale

Although documentation can be used for audits, such as financial or quality audits, this is not its primary purpose. The main goal of documentation is to provide a comprehensive record of patient care for effective communication and continuity.

Choice D rationale

While accurate documentation supports billing and reimbursement processes from various payers, including government entities, this is a secondary outcome. The primary aim of documentation is to ensure high-quality patient care through clear and comprehensive information sharing.

Choice A rationale

Reading back the order ensures accuracy and allows the physician to immediately correct any misheard or misinterpreted information. This step is crucial for patient safety as it verifies the details of the medication order before it is implemented.

Choice B rationale

While double-checking with another nurse is a good practice, the immediate priority after receiving a telephone order is to confirm the order directly with the prescriber to avoid any initial misunderstanding.

Choice C rationale

Authorizing the order with the pharmacy occurs after the order has been received and verified. The pharmacy then prepares and dispenses the medication based on the confirmed order.

Choice D rationale

Withholding the medication could delay necessary treatment. The priority is to verify the order promptly and then proceed with safe administration. Many institutions allow for a limited time frame for the written order to follow a telephone order.