A nurse is preparing to administer a controlled substance as prescribed for a post-operative client who reports moderate pain. After retrieving the medication from the controlled supply, the client states they no longer want the medication at this time. What action should the nurse take next?
Advise the client that the medication will be administered since they originally requested it.
Have another licensed nurse witness and document the disposal of the medication.
Bring the controlled substance to the client’s bedside in case they change their mind.
Temporarily secure the medication in the medication cart for later use.
The nurse must follow proper protocol for wasting a controlled substance. Controlled substances must be disposed of in the presence of a witness (such as another licensed nurse) to comply with federal regulations and prevent misuse or diversion. Documenting the disposal is essential to account for the medication and remain compliant. Securing the medication in the cart temporarily without wasting it is not appropriate, as the medication has already been removed from the secure storage system. Returning the medication to the client's bedside is unsafe and does not align with regulatory guidelines. Administering the medication despite the client’s refusal violates patient autonomy.
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Physiological Integrity
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