Question

The nurse receives all of the following stat orders for Mr. Palmer. Which one should the nurse question?

1) Oxygen per nasal cannula at 4 L per minute.
2) Enoxaparin (Lovenox) 40 mg subcutaneously.
3) Troponin level.
4) Computed tomography (CT) angiogram.

Answer 1

The nurse should question the CT angiogram order for Mr. Palmer, as it involves potential risks and requires consideration of the patient's full clinical picture.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should question the order for a CT angiogram for Mr. Palmer without knowing the full clinical picture but presuming a situation where a nurse might consider the safety and necessity of the intervention. CT angiograms are diagnostic imaging procedures that involve the use of contrast dye, which can potentially pose risks to the patient if they have certain allergies, kidney problems, or other contraindications. A careful review of the patient's history and current condition is always required before proceeding with this type of imaging. While orders for supplemental oxygen, Enoxaparin (as a thromboprophylaxis), and a troponin level (indicative of potential myocardial injury) might be more routinely given and generally indicate acute management steps in a hospital setting, the CT angiogram might be less of a routine order and necessitates more careful consideration.