California Nursing Home Administrator License Practice Exam

What is a responsibility of the licensed nurse regarding medication orders?

1. To change the label themselves

2. To alert staff of changes

3. To re-prescribe medications

4. To administer medications at all times

The correct answer is: To alert staff of changes

The role of the licensed nurse concerning medication orders includes the critical responsibility of alerting staff of changes. This is an essential function because medication orders can change due to various factors such as patient condition, side effects, or adjustments in treatment plans. When a nurse is informed of a change in a medication order, it is their duty to promptly communicate this to all relevant staff members to ensure patient safety and the continuity of care. Effective communication within the healthcare team is vital to minimize the risk of medication errors and adverse drug reactions. This also ensures that all staff members are aware of the most current treatment plans and can respond appropriately in their caregiving duties. The other options do not align with the responsibilities of a licensed nurse. For example, changing a medication label is typically outside the nurse's scope and would be managed by pharmacy professionals. Re-prescribing medications falls under the purview of licensed prescribers such as physicians or nurse practitioners. While administering medications is a core duty of nurses, it is not accurate to say they must administer medications at all times, as this acknowledges the situation-dependent nature of medical care and changes that may occur in patients' treatment plans.