The physician ordered an oral medication. The nurse incorrectly administered the medication intravenously. What does the best analysis of the nurse's action reveal?
1. An antidote cannot be given.
2. The nurse will be terminated from her job.
3. The medication cannot be retrieved.
4. A lawsuit by the patient will be impending.
Correct Answer: 3
Rationale: When a medication is given intravenously, its effects cannot be reversed because it is already in the bloodstream. A lawsuit may occur, but this is not the primary concern; patient safety is the primary concern. The nurse may be terminated, but patient safety is the main concern, and the effect of the medication cannot be reversed. Antidotes may be given, but this must be done very quickly.
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