Question

Why is it so important to review orders PRIOR to assuming care of a patient? Provide a fictitious example of how not being aware of the orders prior to assuming care might result in patient harm.

Answer 1

It is important for the nurses to clearly review the physician’s order (prescription) and make sure that it is the correct medication required. Failure to review the order, or negligence during reviewing the order can lead to medication errors.

For example, if the physician prescribes an intravenous penicillin derivative antibiotic to a penicillin-sensitive patient, it causes a severe anaphylaxis reaction. If the nurse administers the drug without reviewing the patient profile and the prescription through, the patient will face a life-threatening condition. This medication error could be prevented if the nurse reviews the prescription.