Arkansas Long Term Care Administrator Practice Exam 2025 - Free Practice Questions and Study Guide

A nurse can indeed take a physician's orders over the phone, and it is essential that these orders are documented to ensure proper communication, accuracy, and accountability in patient care. Documentation serves as a legal record of the instructions given, which is crucial for maintaining the quality and continuity of care for the patient.

Taking phone orders is a common practice in healthcare settings, especially when immediate decisions about patient care need to be made and the physician is not physically present. However, to prevent misunderstandings or errors, it is necessary to record the exact details of the order in the patient's chart. This not only protects the patient by ensuring that the orders are followed correctly but also protects the nurse and physician by providing a clear and traceable communication record.

While the other options may suggest different scenarios regarding phone orders, documenting the orders remains a critical step in the process to ensure safety and compliance with nursing protocols.