What should a nurse do when taking a verbal order from a physician?

When taking a verbal order from a physician, it is essential for the nurse to repeat the order back to the physician. This practice, known as "read-back," serves multiple important purposes. First, it helps ensure that there is no misunderstanding or miscommunication regarding the medication, dosage, or instructions given. By articulating the order, the nurse verifies that they have accurately understood it.

Moreover, this step acts as a safety measure to minimize the risk of errors that could occur due to similar-sounding drug names or misinterpretations of dosage. It also reflects a commitment to patient safety and fosters clear communication channels between healthcare providers. In healthcare settings, fostering accurate communication is crucial for effective patient care, and the read-back process is a recognized standard for verbal orders.

Therefore, repeating the order not only helps confirm the accuracy of the information but also reinforces accountability in the medication administration process, ultimately enhancing patient safety and care outcomes.