NCLEX-PN® ExaminationCoordinated CareHard
An LPN is preparing to administer medication to a client. The LPN scans the client's wristband, but the electronic health record (EHR) system is experiencing a temporary outage, preventing medication verification. What is the MOST appropriate action for the LPN to take?
- AWithhold the medication and notify the charge nurse and pharmacy about the system issue.
- BAttempt to log into the EHR system on a different computer to bypass the outage.
- CAsk a colleague to verify the medication order verbally and then administer it.
- DAdminister the medication based on the paper Medication Administration Record (MAR) without double-checking.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Withhold the medication and notify the charge nurse and pharmacy about the system issue.
In an EHR system outage that prevents medication verification, client safety is paramount. The LPN's most appropriate action is to withhold the medication to prevent potential errors and immediately notify the charge nurse and pharmacy. This allows the team to implement downtime procedures and ensure safe medication administration through alternative, verified methods.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Attempting to bypass a system outage on a different computer is unlikely to resolve the underlying issue and may waste critical time without ensuring safety.
- C. Verbal verification from a colleague is insufficient and unsafe without access to the official, current medication order in a verified system, especially given the system outage.
- D. Administering medication solely based on a paper MAR without full verification (especially if the EHR is the primary system) increases the risk of error.
Information Technology: System Downtime Protocol
Established procedures to maintain client safety and continuity of care during planned or unplanned interruptions of electronic health record (EHR) systems.
- Prioritizes patient safety above all else.
- Involves reverting to paper documentation and manual processes.
- Requires clear communication and collaboration among staff and departments.
Memory trick: System's down? Stop, speak, save the patient's day.