Final answer:
To 'dispense' medications in the context of nursing means to prepare and give out prescribed drugs to patients, ensuring correct dosage and safe administration. Nurses, under the direct supervision of a physician, work alongside pharmacists who provide expertise in drug interactions and patient counseling.
Step-by-step explanation:
When referring to a registered nurse (RN) or licensed practical nurse (LPN) dispensing medications, it describes the process of preparing and giving out prescription drugs to patients, under the direction of a physician. These nursing professionals are responsible for ensuring that patients receive the correct dosage of medication at the proper times and are educated on how to take their medications safely and effectively. This duty is part of their broader role in patient care, which may also involve monitoring patients' vitals signs and responding to their needs, especially in specialized settings such as dialysis centers where nurses work under the direct supervision of a registered nurse.
Although it's the pharmacist who is typically known for dispensing medications, after having been prescribed by a doctor, nurses also play a vital role in the medication management and administration process. Pharmacists, due to their extensive knowledge in chemistry and biology, and having a doctorate in pharmacy, provide counsel to both physicians and patients regarding drug selection, dosage, interactions, and side effects. Nurses work collaboratively with pharmacists and other medical professionals to ensure that the dispensing process is accurate, safe, and tailored to the patient's health needs.