Question

A patient presents with delirium tremens requiring Ativan administration. The provider of care is not the facility. Which action by the nurse is the most appropriate?

1) Obtain a telephone order.
2) Contact the on-call hospitalist.
3) Obtain an order from the charge nurse.
4) Wait for a written Ativan order.

Answer 1

The most appropriate action for a nurse when a patient requires Ativan for delirium tremens and there is no provider is to obtain a telephone order to ensure prompt and safe treatment.

Step-by-step explanation:

In the scenario where a patient presents with delirium tremens requiring Ativan administration and the provider is not the facility, the most appropriate action for the nurse would be to obtain a telephone order. This allows for timely treatment of the acute condition while still following proper medical and legal protocols. Since delirium tremens can be a life-threatening condition, it is crucial to act swiftly and within the boundaries of safe medical practices.

Depending on the institution's policies, the nurse may also consider contacting the on-call hospitalist as an alternative if there is an immediate need for physician evaluation. However, obtaining an order from the charge nurse is generally not appropriate, as medication orders should come from a licensed provider. It is also not advisable to wait for a written Ativan order in an emergency situation where delay could endanger the patient's health.