Question

The health care provider has written an order for "morphine sulfate 2 mg IV push every 3 to 4 hours as needed for pain" for a 75 year-old client in an extended care facility. The licensed practical nurse (LPN) in charge has no other licensed persons working that shift. Which action should the LPN take first?

1. Give the medication orally and follow up with the health care provider
2. Administer the prescribed dose as ordered
3. Check with the pharmacist
4. Hold the medication and contact the health care provider

Answer 1

The LPN should first contact the health care provider to confirm authority to administer IV medications and ensure the safety and appropriateness of the order for the elderly patient.

Step-by-step explanation:

The licensed practical nurse (LPN) is presented with a health care provider's order for "morphine sulfate 2 mg IV push every 3 to 4 hours as needed for pain" for an elderly patient at an extended care facility. The first action the LPN should take is to contact the health care provider to clarify the order, as the LPN may not have the authority to administer IV medications depending on state regulations and facility policies. It is also important to verify that the route and dosage are appropriate for the patient's age and clinical status. Other actions such as checking with the pharmacist can also be important, but ensuring that the LPN has the authority to administer the medication intravenously and that it is safe for the patient should be the primary concern.