Author Question: The nurse educator in the local hospital is preparing a teaching plan for staff nurses on using ... (Read 59 times)

rachel9 · **on:** Jul 23, 2018

The nurse educator in the local hospital is preparing a teaching plan for staff nurses on using medication abbreviations in nursing documentation.

What is most important for the nurse to include in the teaching plan concerning acceptable abbreviations? Select all that apply.
a. They are based on Joint Commission recommendations.
b. They are commonly used by the pharmacy department.
c. They are most commonly used by nurses.
d. They are based on policies of the facility.

Question 2

The home health nurse is caring for a 75-year-old patient with severe arthritis of her hands and fingers. The patient states, I can't use these childproof safety lock caps because I can't open them.

What is the most appropriate response(s) by the nurse? Select all that apply.
a. I see this is difficult for you. Do you have any family members or friends who can help you?
b. We can ask the pharmacist not to put childproof caps on your medications; you may need to sign a form.
c. You can transfer your medications to different containers that are easier for you to open.
d. All medications come in childproof containers, so there isn't much we can do about this.

jackie · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 23, 2018

Answer to Question 1

A, D
The nurse should write out drug names and dosages in full. Abbreviations can be easily confused and many are not universally understood. However, you will see and use some abbreviations when administering and documenting medications. Always do so carefully because some may be similar and confusing. Consult The Joint Commission's official Do Not Use list and know the acceptable abbreviations used in your facility.

Answer to Question 2

A, B
If a patient has difficulty opening containers and administering medications owing to pain or stiffness in the hands and fingers, family members and friends can be asked to help. Additionally, the nurse or patient can ask the pharmacy and the primary care provider not to put childproof safety lids on containers for easier handling. Older adults are allowed to sign a release with their pharmacy to be able to do this. Do not store a drug in a container that is different from the one it came in. The medication may lose its strength or the patient may take the wrong medication.