A nurse is reviewing a client's new prescription for temazepam 30 mg PO. Which of the following should the nurse clarify with the provider?
Explanation & Rationale
A) Time: Clarifying the time refers to confirming when the medication should be administered. This ensures that the client receives the medication at the correct time according to the provider's instructions, which is crucial for medications like temazepam that can affect sleep patterns. B) Medication: Clarifying the medication involves confirming that temazepam is the correct medication prescribed for the client. This ensures there are no errors in medication administration and that the intended therapeutic effect is achieved. C) Route: Clarifying the route involves confirming how the medication should be administered. For temazepam 30 mg PO, "PO" (by mouth) is the appropriate and common route for this medication. D) Dose: Clarifying the dose is critical because 30 mg of temazepam is higher than the usual recommended dose for elderly patients, which is typically 7.5-15 mg. A higher dose can increase the risk of side effects such as sedation, confusion, and falls. Therefore, the nurse should verify the dose with the provider to ensure patient safety.