The prescriber has written admission orders, and the nurse is transcribing them. The nurse is having difficulty transcribing one order because of the prescriber's handwriting. Which is the best action for the nurse to take at this time?
Ask a colleague what the order says.
Contact the prescriber to clarify the order.
Wait until the prescriber makes rounds again to clarify the order.
Ask the patient what medications he takes at home.
The Correct Answer is B
A. Ask a colleague what the order says:
This option involves seeking assistance from a colleague to interpret the illegible handwriting. While collaboration among healthcare professionals is important, relying on a colleague to interpret unclear handwriting may introduce the risk of miscommunication or misinterpretation.
B. Contact the prescriber to clarify the order:
This is the recommended and safest option. Contacting the prescriber directly to seek clarification ensures accurate information and reduces the risk of misinterpretation or errors related to illegible handwriting.
C. Wait until the prescriber makes rounds again to clarify the order:
This option involves delaying clarification until the prescriber is available during rounds. Waiting may not be ideal if the patient requires prompt intervention or if there is an urgency in administering the medication. Timely communication is crucial for patient safety.
D. Ask the patient what medications he takes at home:
This option is unrelated to the issue of illegible handwriting on the prescription. While obtaining a patient's medication history is important for comprehensive care, it does not address the immediate need to clarify the unclear order.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Calm the patient to reduce acid production.
This description is not accurate for sucralfate. Calming the patient to reduce acid production is typically associated with medications like proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) or H2 receptor blockers.
B. Block the H2 receptors.
Blocking H2 receptors is the mechanism of action for H2 receptor blockers, such as ranitidine. It is not the mechanism of action for sucralfate.
C. Neutralize the gastric acids.
Neutralizing gastric acids is the mechanism of action for antacids, such as aluminum hydroxide or calcium carbonate. Sucralfate works differently; it forms a protective coating on the gastric lining rather than directly neutralizing acids.
D. Coat the gastric lining.
This is the correct mechanism of action for sucralfate. It forms a protective coating on the gastric lining, adhering to the ulcer site and providing a barrier against gastric acid.

Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. "Continue taking OCPS because phenytoin is not safe during pregnancy."
This statement is not accurate. While it's essential to address pregnancy risk, phenytoin can reduce the effectiveness of oral contraceptives. Women on phenytoin are often advised to use additional contraceptive measures.
B. "You should use a backup method of contraception along with OCPs."
This is the correct response. Phenytoin can accelerate the metabolism of oral contraceptives, potentially reducing their effectiveness. Using a backup method, such as condoms, is recommended to ensure adequate contraception.
C. "You should stop taking OCPs because of drug-drug interactions with phenytoin."
This advice is generally not recommended without consulting the healthcare provider. Abruptly stopping OCPs without an alternative form of contraception can increase the risk of unintended pregnancy.
D. "You should take low-dose aspirin while taking these medications to reduce your risk of stroke."
This statement is not relevant to the situation described. Low-dose aspirin is not typically recommended for contraception, and its use in this context does not address the potential interaction between phenytoin and oral contraceptives.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.