A client's doctor writes an order for a laxative to relieve constipation. The doctor's order states, "enema prn". What should you as the nurse do?
A)Check to see what types of enemas there are on-hand in the medication room and choose one.
B)Ask the client what type of enema and at what time of day they would prefer to receive it.
C)Ignore the order, as it is an incomplete order.
D)Ask the doctor to clarify the order, to include the type and frequency of the enema.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Orders from a doctor must be clear and precise. The doctor must clarify the type of enema as well as frequency (e.g. daily or every 2 days prn). If you gave the enema without further clarification, you could be accused of malpractice.

A Client's Doctor Writes an Order for a Laxative to Relieve