A nurse is reviewing a client's prescription for lorazepam 3 mg PO BID. The nurse should interpret which of the following information from the prescription?
Explanation & Rationale
A. The medication should be administered as needed: This interpretation is incorrect because the prescription specifies a regular dosing schedule of twice daily (BID), indicating that it is not PRN (as needed) but rather a scheduled medication. B. The medication is administered orally: This is correct as the prescription states "PO," which stands for "per os," meaning the medication is to be taken by mouth. This indicates the route of administration and is essential for ensuring the client receives the medication correctly. C. The nurse should administer 1.5 mg twice daily: This interpretation is incorrect. The prescription specifically indicates a total dose of 3 mg to be taken, not divided into 1.5 mg doses. The correct administration is 3 mg at each dosing time, totaling 6 mg per day. D. The medication is administered with every meal: This is not specified in the prescription. The dosing schedule of BID does not imply administration with meals unless explicitly stated. The nurse should follow the prescribed timing and not assume meal-related administration without clear instructions.