This paper of NUR 403 Week 5 DQ1 comprises:
Discuss how you might change how you practice nursing if you did not have to follow physician
Expert Solution Preview
Introduction:
As a medical professor responsible for creating college assignments and evaluating student performance, I am well-equipped to address the question regarding changes in nursing practice if not bound by physician orders. While I understand the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in the healthcare field, this response will explore the potential impacts of nursing autonomy on patient care, decision-making, and overall nursing practice.
Answer:
If I were not bound by physician orders, it would significantly impact how I practice nursing. Without the need for physician approval or oversight, I would have the opportunity to exercise greater autonomy in decision-making and direct patient care. This newfound freedom would enable me to take a more holistic approach to patient care, focusing on the unique needs and preferences of each individual.
One significant change would be in the area of care planning and intervention implementation. Instead of relying solely on physician orders, I would have the ability to independently assess, diagnose, and develop comprehensive care plans for my patients. This would involve collaborating with the interdisciplinary healthcare team, including pharmacists, other nurses, therapists, social workers, and patients themselves, to ensure the most effective and individualized care.
Another aspect that would change is the ability to streamline and expedite certain aspects of patient care. In the absence of physician orders, I could independently order and interpret diagnostic tests, such as laboratory tests or imaging studies, when necessary. This would empower nurses to promptly respond to changes in a patient’s condition and initiate appropriate interventions without the delay of waiting for physician approval.
Furthermore, without the constraints of physician orders, I would have more flexibility in medication administration. While adhering to appropriate nursing protocols and guidelines, I would have the authority to adjust medication dosages, frequency, and routes according to a patient’s needs. However, it is important to note that this would require a thorough understanding of pharmacology, medication interactions, and adverse effects to ensure safe and effective medication management.
In conjunction with these changes, nursing collaboration and communication with physicians would still be essential, albeit in a different manner. While not relying on physician orders, nurses and physicians would engage in more collaborative discussions, sharing insights, and seeking professional opinions. This shift in the dynamic could greatly enhance interdisciplinary collaboration and foster a more equal partnership in patient care.
In conclusion, if I were not bound by physician orders, my nursing practice would undergo significant changes. These changes would bring about heightened autonomy and the ability to provide more individualized and holistic care. Nonetheless, it is essential to acknowledge that effective interdisciplinary collaboration and communication with physicians remain pivotal for optimal patient outcomes.
