A nurse is preparing to implement a client's prescription for hydrocortisone acetate cream, apply topically to facial rash twice a day. The nurse should ask the producer to add which of the following to the medication prescription?
Explanation & Rationale
A. Route: The prescription clearly specifies the route as "apply topically," which means that the method of administration is already well-defined. There is no need for further clarification or addition regarding the route of administration in this case. Since it is already included in the instructions, adding this information would be redundant. B. Time/frequency: The prescription includes the frequency, stating that the hydrocortisone acetate cream should be applied "twice a day." Therefore, the time and frequency are already specified in the order, leaving no need for further clarification in this section. It is important to ensure that the time and frequency are correctly indicated, but in this case, the details are complete. C. Dose/Strength: The prescription lacks crucial information about the dose or strength of the hydrocortisone acetate cream. This is a critical piece of information, as different strengths (e.g., 1%, 2.5%) can be prescribed depending on the severity of the condition being treated. Clarifying the dose/strength is necessary to ensure that the client receives the appropriate concentration, preventing underdosing or overdosing, which could affect the treatment's effectiveness and safety. D. Medication name: The medication name, "hydrocortisone acetate cream," is already clearly listed in the prescription. Since it has been included in the order, there is no need for the nurse to ask the provider to add it again. The medication name is essential for correct identification, but in this scenario, it is already documented. Adding it would be unnecessary and would not improve the clarity of the prescription.