When a provider calls with a prescription for an OTC laxative for a constipated patient, which action should the nurse direct the unit clerk to take first?

When a provider calls with a prescription for an OTC laxative for a constipated patient, which action should the nurse direct the unit clerk to take first?

• A. Tell the provider the nurse will return the phone call as soon as possible.
• B. Be sure to write down what is prescribed and then repeat it back to the healthcare provider.
• C. Remain with the patient and monitor vital signs while the nurse takes the call.
• D. Ask the provider to remain on hold until the nurse can confirm the prescription.

Answer: (A)

When a prescription comes in by phone, the priority is to establish clear, timely communication and ensure the nurse verifies the order before it’s acted on. Directing the unit clerk to tell the prescriber that the nurse will return the call keeps the workflow moving and shows commitment to accurate interpretation and patient safety—the nurse can review patient details, the exact OTC laxative prescribed, dosing, and any potential interactions before the order is finalized. This approach avoids making assumptions or documenting the order without the nurse’s review, and it prevents unnecessary hold times or interruptions for the patient. The other actions either task the unit clerk with steps that should be done by the nurse (such as repeating back the order) or pull the provider into a hold scenario that isn’t the first step when a nurse is available to handle the verification.

When a prescription comes in by phone, the priority is to establish clear, timely communication and ensure the nurse verifies the order before it’s acted on. Directing the unit clerk to tell the prescriber that the nurse will return the call keeps the workflow moving and shows commitment to accurate interpretation and patient safety—the nurse can review patient details, the exact OTC laxative prescribed, dosing, and any potential interactions before the order is finalized.

This approach avoids making assumptions or documenting the order without the nurse’s review, and it prevents unnecessary hold times or interruptions for the patient. The other actions either task the unit clerk with steps that should be done by the nurse (such as repeating back the order) or pull the provider into a hold scenario that isn’t the first step when a nurse is available to handle the verification.