Question

The nurse determines that the transcribed dose of hydromorphone (Dilaudid) on the medication record of the oncology client is not within a safe range. Which action should the nurse take first? ? A. Verify the order was transcribed correctly ? B. Give the dose anyway because client is terminal ? C. Alter the dose to the recommended amount ? D. Call the pharmacy to approve the dosage

Short answer

Answer: A. Verify the order was transcribed correctly

Step-by-step solution

Understand the Situation

In this case, the nurse realizes that the dose of hydromorphone for an oncology client is not within a safe range. The nurse's primary concern should always be the safety and well-being of the patient.

Evaluate the Options

Let's look at each option and evaluate whether it aligns with the nurse's responsibilities in this situation.

Option A: Verify the order was transcribed correctly

The nurse should first determine whether the prescribed dosage was accurately documented. Checking for transcription errors helps ensure the correct dosage is administered and guides the decision-making process for any other necessary actions.

Option B: Give the dose anyway because the client is terminal

It is not within the professional duties of a nurse to make decisions based solely on the client's prognosis. Nurses should ensure that they are providing safe and effective care to patients, regardless of prognosis. This option contradicts the code of ethics in nursing, so we can eliminate this choice.

Option C: Alter the dose to the recommended amount

Nurses should avoid independently altering the prescribed dosage without consulting a doctor or pharmacist. This action may lead to further complications or improper treatment. It is not within the nurse's scope of practice to adjust medication dosages without proper authorization.

Option D: Call the pharmacy to approve the dosage

This alternative might seem like an appropriate action; however, it is important to remember that the priority is to verify if there is a transcription error. The correct procedure would be first to confirm the initial order and then consult with the pharmacy if necessary.

Conclusion

Based on the analysis of the provided choices, the correct answer is: ? A. Verify the order was transcribed correctly