If a medication order changes during a shift, what should you do?

If a medication order changes during a shift, what should you do?

• A. Ignore the change until the end of shift.
• B. Notify the nurse and document the change in the MAR.
• C. Update the MAR with the change and inform the supervising nurse so all shifts are aware.
• D. Remove the old order from the chart without notification.

Answer: (C)

When a medication order changes during a shift, the priority is to ensure the updated information is visible to everyone who administers meds. Update the Medication Administration Record with the new order—recording drug, dose, route, frequency, the effective time, and your initials. Then inform the supervising nurse so all shifts are aware. This coordination prevents administering the old order, avoids dosing mistakes, and ensures continuity of care as staff change. Involving the supervising nurse helps guarantee that the updated order is communicated across all shifts and reflected in any electronic records or additional documentation, reducing the risk of miscommunication or an error.

When a medication order changes during a shift, the priority is to ensure the updated information is visible to everyone who administers meds. Update the Medication Administration Record with the new order—recording drug, dose, route, frequency, the effective time, and your initials. Then inform the supervising nurse so all shifts are aware. This coordination prevents administering the old order, avoids dosing mistakes, and ensures continuity of care as staff change. Involving the supervising nurse helps guarantee that the updated order is communicated across all shifts and reflected in any electronic records or additional documentation, reducing the risk of miscommunication or an error.