The registered nurse (RN) is providing nursing care with a licensed practical nurse and unlicensed assistive personnel. The RN administers hydromorphone 1.5 mg IVP per STAT order to a client with severe abdominal pain. Three hours later, the client rates pain as a 9 on a scale of 0-10 and requests pain medication. What is the most appropriate action for the RN to take?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A STAT order indicates that the medication should be given immediately and only one time. A new prescription for the medication must be acquired before the dose can be repeated. The most appropriate action is to contact the health care provider to request an as-needed prescription for pain medication. (Option A) A STAT medication dose was administered and cannot be repeated without a new prescription. (Option B) In most states, the registered nurse (RN) cannot delegate the administration of IV opioids to the licensed practical nurse, and it cannot be administered without a new prescription. (Option C) The RN can delegate repeat vital sign checks to the unlicensed assistive personnel, but it is not the most appropriate action. Educational objective: A STAT order indicates that a medication is to be given immediately and only once.

The Registered Nurse (RN) Is Providing Nursing Care with a Licensed