What Should Nurses Do When They Receive an Overdose Alert?
When a nurse receives an overdose alert, several steps should be taken immediately:
1. Verify the Alert: Double-check the patient's medication records and dosages to confirm the validity of the alert. 2. Assess the Patient: Conduct a quick assessment to check for any signs or symptoms of overdose, such as altered mental status, respiratory distress, or abnormal vital signs. 3. Notify the Physician: Inform the attending physician or healthcare provider about the alert and the patient's condition. 4. Implement Emergency Measures: If the patient shows signs of overdose, administer emergency interventions as per hospital protocols, such as naloxone for opioid overdose. 5. Document the Incident: Record the alert, actions taken, and patient response in the patient's medical record.
