The student nurse knows that a prescription requires which of the following information?

Choice A rationale

Tolerance is a physiological adaptation to a drug, characterized by a decreased response to the same dose, or a need for increased doses to achieve the same effect. In this case, the increased dosage of morphine over several weeks indicates that the client's body has adapted to the drug's effects, requiring more to manage pain.

Choice B rationale

An adverse reaction is an undesirable and unintended effect of a drug, occurring at normal doses. While an increased dosage might lead to adverse effects, the described scenario specifically highlights the need for a higher dose to maintain efficacy, which is characteristic of tolerance, not simply an adverse reaction.

Choice C rationale

Idiosyncrasy refers to an unpredictable, uncharacteristic, or exaggerated response to a drug that is not an allergic reaction. It is typically a genetically determined abnormal response that occurs with initial exposure or after a few doses, unlike tolerance which develops over time with repeated exposure.

Choice D rationale

Polypharmacy refers to the concurrent use of multiple medications by a patient, often more than medically necessary. While the client is receiving medication, the scenario specifically describes a change in dosage of a single medication due to a diminished response, which is characteristic of tolerance, not polypharmacy.

Choice A rationale

Delayed documentation increases the risk of medication errors, as details about administration, patient response, and specific timing can be forgotten or inaccurately recalled, compromising patient safety and the accuracy of the medical record.

Choice B rationale

Nurses are legally and professionally obligated to document medications they personally administer. Documentation by a pharmacy technician is inappropriate and violates the principle of direct accountability for medication administration.

Choice C rationale

Only the individual who directly administers the medication should document its administration. This ensures accuracy, accountability, and traceability of the medication process, preventing errors and maintaining legal integrity of the medical record.

Choice D rationale

Immediate documentation after medication administration is a critical safety principle. It accurately reflects the precise time of administration, allowing for timely assessment of patient response, identification of adverse effects, and continuity of care.