Texas Board of Nursing (BON) Practice Exam

If a nurse has concerns regarding a physician's order, what is the appropriate first step?

1. Consult with another nurse for advice

2. Contact the physician for clarification

3. Document the inadequacy of the order

4. Follow the order as it is written

The correct answer is: Contact the physician for clarification

The appropriate first step when a nurse has concerns regarding a physician's order is to contact the physician for clarification. This is essential because the nurse is responsible for ensuring patient safety and providing quality care. By reaching out directly to the physician, the nurse opens a line of communication that allows for any misunderstandings or miscommunications about the order to be addressed promptly. Clarifying the order ensures that the nurse fully understands the intent and specifics behind it and can avoid potentially adverse situations that could arise from following an unclear or inappropriate order. This proactive step also demonstrates professional accountability and collaboration in the healthcare team, which is critical for patient care. The other options may seem valuable, but they do not address the immediate need for clarification. Consulting with another nurse is useful afterward or for additional support, but it does not resolve the question about the order itself. Documenting the inadequacy of the order is important for records but should come after ensuring that the order is clear and appropriate. Following the order as written without clarification could lead to harmful implications for patient safety. Thus, contacting the physician is the most responsible and effective course of action.