Florida Assisted Living Facilities Practice Exam

What is the responsibility of nurses regarding medication orders?

1. Change the medication orders if necessary

2. Only follow orders given by family members

3. Take telephone orders as needed

4. Disregard incorrect orders

The correct answer is: Take telephone orders as needed

The responsibility of nurses regarding medication orders is to take telephone orders as needed. This is a standard practice within nursing where communication through telephone is often essential, allowing procedures to continue efficiently when the physician is not physically present. Nurses are trained to understand medication protocols and are responsible for accurately noting and clarifying any orders received via telephone. In this context, it is important to ensure the orders are logged correctly and confirmed if there is any uncertainty, maintaining patient safety and adhering to legal and ethical standards in medication administration. This practice supports the continuity of care, as timely medication provision is crucial for patient wellbeing. Other options focus on changing orders, following family members rather than medical professionals, or disregarding incorrect orders, which are not aligned with the professional standards or responsibilities expected of nurses. These alternatives could compromise patient safety and violate medical protocols.