Question

The nurse working in the long-term care facility reviews a physician order that the nurse feels is unsafe. The physician is contacted and upholds the order. What should the nurse do?

A. Carry out the order and document the order was questioned with the physician.
B. Refuse to carry out the order and document the rationale for why it was not done.
C. Consult the RN supervisor and explain the situation and the physician's response.
D. Explain the dilemma to the patient and ask the patient to give permission for the
order to be done.

Answer 1

In this situation, the nurse should refuse to carry out the unsafe order and document their rationale.

Step-by-step explanation:

In situations where a nurse in a long-term care facility reviews a physician order that they feel is unsafe and the physician upholds the order after being contacted, the nurse should:

B. Refuse to carry out the order and document the rationale for why it was not done.

The nurse should prioritize patient safety and advocate for their well-being. By refusing to carry out the order and documenting the rationale, the nurse ensures that their concerns are properly recorded and addressed by the appropriate authorities.