What is the nurse's first action upon receiving new prescriptions from a healthcare provider?

The primary action for the nurse upon receiving new prescriptions from a healthcare provider is to read all of the new prescriptions thoroughly. This step is essential for several reasons. First, it ensures the nurse fully understands the orders, including the medication names, dosages, routes of administration, and any special instructions. Reading the prescriptions carefully helps identify any potential errors, inconsistencies, or omissions that may need clarification before proceeding with the administration of the medications.

Furthermore, this initial assessment allows the nurse to consider the patient's current health status, allergies, and any other medications the patient may be taking. By comprehensively reviewing the orders, the nurse can ensure patient safety and prepare for potential education regarding the medications that will be administered later.

Other actions, such as preparing the medications, verifying orders with a pharmacist, or informing the patient, are all important but come after the nurse has taken the critical step of understanding and confirming the prescriptions. This order of operations is vital for maintaining safe nursing practices.