The best way to avoid misinterpreting medication information on a prescription is to obtain
A standing orders.
B a written order.
C a verbal order.
D a phone order.
The correct answer and explanation is:
Correct Answer: B. A written order.
Explanation (300 words):
The best way to avoid misinterpreting medication information on a prescription is to obtain a written order. Written orders provide a clear, permanent, and verifiable record of the prescribed medication, including the drug name, dosage, route, frequency, and any special instructions. This minimizes the risk of errors that may occur due to miscommunication or illegible handwriting.
Unlike verbal or phone orders, written prescriptions reduce ambiguity. Verbal communication can be misheard, especially in noisy environments like hospital wards or over poor phone connections. Mishearing a drug name or dosage can have serious consequences for patient safety. For example, the sound-alike drugs “Lamisil” (antifungal) and “Lamictal” (anticonvulsant) could easily be confused in a rushed verbal exchange.
Standing orders, while useful in certain clinical settings (such as emergency protocols or routine vaccinations), are predefined and may not reflect the individual needs of a specific patient at a given moment. They are not tailored prescriptions.
Verbal orders and phone orders are sometimes necessary in emergencies or when immediate treatment is required, but they should be followed up with written documentation as soon as possible. Most healthcare institutions have policies requiring verbal orders to be “read back” and confirmed to reduce errors.
From a legal and safety standpoint, written orders offer the highest clarity and accountability. They allow for proper double-checking by pharmacists, nurses, and other healthcare professionals before medication is administered. Additionally, written records are essential for legal documentation, audit trails, and quality control processes in healthcare settings.
Therefore, to minimize the risk of misinterpreting medication information, obtaining a written order is the safest and most reliable method.