A practical nurse (PN) is reviewing new orders for a client and notes a prescription for an antibiotic. The client's medical record clearly indicates a severe anaphylactic allergy to this specific medication class. Arrange the actions the PN should take in the correct priority order.
- 1Withhold the administration of the newly prescribed antibiotic.
- 2Contact the prescribing healthcare provider to report the allergy and question the order.
- 3Notify the nursing supervisor or charge nurse if the provider insists on the original order.
- 4Document the withheld medication, provider notification, and resulting actions in the health record.
Answer
First, withhold the medication. Next, contact the prescribing provider. Then, escalate to the nursing supervisor if necessary. Finally, document the event in the client's record.
The correct order prioritizes immediate client safety, followed by communication, escalation, and finally documentation. The PN must first withhold the medication to prevent a life-threatening anaphylactic reaction. Next, the PN clarifies the order with the provider. If the provider refuses to change the order, the PN must ethically advocate for the client by following the chain of command and notifying the nursing supervisor. Finally, all actions and communications must be thoroughly documented in the medical record.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Chain of Command and Medication Safety in PN Scope of Practice