What action should the nurse take when an unsafe medication order is received by phone?

• A. Call and speak directly with the healthcare provider (HCP).
• B. Hold the potassium chloride.
• C. Document the phone call and prescriptions.
• D. Notify the charge nurse and activate the chain of command.

Answer: (A)

When a medication order arrives by phone and it seems unsafe, the most important step is to directly contact the prescriber to verify and clarify the order. Speaking with the healthcare provider allows you to confirm the exact drug, dose, route, frequency, and duration, and to address safety concerns—especially with high-alert meds like potassium chloride. Use a read-back process: repeat the order back to the prescriber to ensure you’ve captured every detail correctly, then document the clarified order, including who you spoke with and the time. Only after the order is confirmed should you proceed with administration. If the prescriber cannot be reached, escalate according to policy to ensure the issue is resolved before giving the medication.