What should a nurse do first upon receiving a prescription for hydralazine IM?

When receiving a prescription for hydralazine a nurse's first step should be to clarify the prescription with the healthcare provider. This is essential because the nurse needs to ensure that the prescribed dosage and method of administration are appropriate for the patient's condition. Hydralazine can have specific indications and contraindications, and it is crucial to ensure that the prescription aligns with the patient's medical history and current health status. If there is any ambiguity or if the prescription appears unusual—such as an inappropriate dosage or route of administration—seeking clarification helps prevent potential medication errors that could lead to adverse effects.

Taking vital signs is important after ensuring the prescription's validity, as hydralazine affects blood pressure and may require monitoring before administration. However, obtaining the client's vital signs does not take precedence over confirming the order itself. Similarly, preparing the correct syringe and reviewing medication allergies are also vital steps to ensure safe medication administration, but they should occur after the prescription's legitimacy is confirmed.