Question

A nurse is working on a busy orthopedic floor and is on the phone with the floor manager when a physician comes up and gives a verbal order for pain medications on an assigned patient. The physician then leaves the unit. Which action by the nurse would be the most appropriate?

1) Write down the order and administer the medication.
2) Put the nurse manager on hold and ask the physician to write the order.
3) Ignore the physician and continue the conversation with the nurse manager.
4) Write down the order and document it as a telephone order.

Answer 1

The most appropriate action for the nurse would be to write down the order and document it as a telephone order. Verbal orders should be properly documented to ensure accuracy and accountability.

Step-by-step explanation:

The most appropriate action for the nurse in this situation would be to write down the order and document it as a telephone order.

Verbal orders are common in healthcare settings, but it is important to properly document them to ensure accuracy and accountability. Writing down the order and documenting it as a telephone order allows for proper record-keeping and serves as a legal documentation of the physician's order.

Additionally, it is crucial for the nurse to prioritize patient care and administer the pain medication in a timely manner, as prescribed by the physician.