What should a nurse do if a modification changes the order's intent?

When a modification to a medication order changes its intent, it is crucial to ensure that the patient's treatment plan remains clear and effective. Discontinuing the original order and placing a new one is the correct action to take in this situation. This approach prevents any potential confusion or misinterpretation of the treatment plan, ensuring that the healthcare team understands the change and can act accordingly.

By placing a new order, the nurse documents the altered intent of the medication clearly, highlighting any changes in dosage, frequency, or administration route. This creates an accurate record that is easily accessible to other members of the care team, thereby promoting patient safety and optimal care.

In contrast, simply modifying the original order in the system or leaving the order unchanged can lead to misunderstandings and errors in medication administration, jeopardizing patient safety. Therefore, the practice of discontinuing and reordering ensures clarity, continuity, and adherence to best practices in medication management.