Question

The RN giving meds on a large med-surg unit notes that an order for Digoxin is considered larger than the usual dose. She looks up the medication in a reference book and finds that she is correct about the dosage. The ordered dose is several times the usual dose. The nurse then calls the supervisor and explains the situation. The supervisor double checks the order with the RN and states" Dr. Jones is an outstanding physician. I am sure he had good reason for ordering this dose. Go ahead and give the dose as ordered. I'll take responsibility". The nurse then gives the medication, and the pt suffers a toxic reaction.

a) The nurse is liable
b) The supervisor is liable

Answer 1

The nurse is liable for the toxic reaction suffered by the patient.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse is liable for the toxic reaction suffered by the patient.

The nurse had a duty to ensure patient safety and should have questioned the unusually high dosage of Digoxin before administering it.

The supervisor, while taking responsibility, does not absolve the nurse of liability as the nurse ultimately made the decision to administer the medication.