A nurse received a prescription to administer a medication NOW to a client. Which action should the nurse take?
Administer the medication within 90 minutes of the provider prescribing the medication.
Administer the medication at specific times until directed by the provider.
Administer the medication at every 4-hour intervals.
Administer the medication whenever the client reports specific manifestations, such as pain.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason: Administering the medication within 90 minutes of the provider prescribing it aligns with the definition of a “NOW” order. A “NOW” order is intended to be given promptly but not as urgently as a STAT order, which requires immediate administration. This timeframe ensures that the medication is given in a timely manner to address the client’s needs without unnecessary delay.
Choice B reason: Administering the medication at specific times until directed by the provider is not appropriate for a “NOW” order. This approach is more suitable for routine or scheduled medications, where the timing is predetermined and consistent. A “NOW” order requires prompt action rather than adherence to a fixed schedule.
Choice C reason: Administering the medication at every 4-hour intervals is incorrect for a “NOW” order. This frequency is typical for PRN (as needed) medications or those requiring regular dosing intervals. A “NOW” order is a one-time directive that necessitates timely administration soon after the order is given.
Choice D reason: Administering the medication whenever the client reports specific manifestations, such as pain, is characteristic of PRN orders. PRN orders are given based on the client’s symptoms and needs at the time. A “NOW” order, however, is a one-time order that should be carried out promptly, regardless of the client’s immediate symptoms.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Advance directives are legal documents that allow individuals to outline their preferences for medical treatment in case they become unable to communicate their decisions. These documents typically include a living will and a durable power of attorney for healthcare. The living will specifies the types of medical treatment a person wishes to receive or avoid, while the durable power of attorney for healthcare designates a trusted individual to make healthcare decisions on their behalf.
Choice A Reason:
“I will get my regular doctor to approve my plan before I hand it in to the hospital.”
This statement indicates a misunderstanding of the purpose of advance directives. While it is important to discuss your advance directives with your healthcare provider, the primary purpose of these documents is to communicate your wishes regarding medical treatment, not to seek approval from your doctor. The advance directive is a personal document that reflects your values and preferences for medical care.
Choice B Reason:
“I know they won’t go ahead with the surgery unless I prepare these forms.”
This statement also reflects a misunderstanding. While having advance directives in place is highly recommended, it is not typically a prerequisite for undergoing surgery. Advance directives are important for ensuring that your medical wishes are respected, but they are not mandatory for surgical procedures. The focus should be on making sure your wishes are known and documented, rather than on the necessity of the forms for surgery.
Choice C Reason:
“I plan to write that I do not want them to keep me on a breathing machine.”
This statement correctly reflects the purpose of an advance directive. It shows that the patient understands that they can specify their preferences for medical treatment, such as whether or not they want to be kept on a breathing machine. This type of instruction is a common component of a living will, which is part of an advance directive. It ensures that healthcare providers are aware of the patient’s wishes regarding life-sustaining treatments.
Choice D Reason:
“I would rather have my brother make decisions for me, but I know he has to be my wife.”
This statement is incorrect and confusing. It seems to mix up the roles of different individuals. In an advance directive, you can designate a healthcare proxy or durable power of attorney for healthcare, who can be any trusted person, not necessarily a spouse. The statement also contains a factual error, as it implies that the brother must be the patient’s wife, which is not possible. The correct understanding is that you can choose any trusted individual to make healthcare decisions on your behalf.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Referring a client because the unit is too busy is not an appropriate reason for a healthcare referral. Referrals should be based on the client’s specific needs and the expertise required to address those needs. Overcrowding or busyness of a unit should be managed through internal resources and staffing adjustments rather than referrals.
Choice B reason: When the care needed for the client is out of the healthcare provider’s scope of practice, a referral is necessary. This ensures that the client receives the appropriate level of care from a specialist or another provider with the required expertise. Referrals help in providing comprehensive and specialized care that the initial provider may not be equipped to deliver.
Choice C reason: Referring a client because they do not have insurance is not appropriate. Healthcare providers should assist clients in finding resources and support for their care needs, regardless of their insurance status. Referrals should be based on clinical needs, not financial or insurance considerations.
Choice D reason: Referring a client because they are late is not a valid reason for a healthcare referral. Timeliness is important, but it should not determine the need for a referral. Providers should address the reasons for lateness and work with the client to ensure they receive the necessary care.
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