Question

The nurse manager is reviewing medication order protocols with staff nurses. Which teaching will the nurse include? Select all that apply.

a. refrain from using abbreviations
b. be mindful of look-alike and sound-alike drugs
c. IU and U are acceptable abbreviations to use
d. orders can be carried out without provider signatures
e. nurses and healthcare providers are accountable for drug safety

Answer 1

The nurse manager should teach the staff nurses to refrain from using abbreviations, be mindful of look-alike and sound-alike drugs, and ensure orders have provider signatures. Nurses and healthcare providers are accountable for drug safety.

Step-by-step explanation:

When reviewing medication order protocols with staff nurses, the nurse manager should include the following teachings:

1. Refrain from using abbreviations: Using abbreviations can lead to medication errors and misunderstandings. It is important for nurses to write out medication names in full to prevent confusion.
2. Be mindful of look-alike and sound-alike drugs: Medications with similar names or packaging can be easily confused. Nurses should double-check the medication name and dosage, and report any potential errors.
3. IU and U are acceptable abbreviations to use: IU stands for International Unit and U stands for Unit. These abbreviations are commonly used in medication orders and are acceptable to use.
4. Orders should have a provider signature: It is important to ensure that medication orders have a provider's signature. This ensures accountability and allows for clear communication.
5. Nurses and healthcare providers are accountable for drug safety: Both nurses and healthcare providers are responsible for ensuring the safety of medications. They should be proactive in identifying and addressing medication errors or potential risks.