When policy conflicts with a physician's order, what is the appropriate action?

• A. Verify the policy, discuss with the physician, offer safe alternatives, and escalate as needed.
• B. Override the order immediately.
• C. Ignore policy and proceed as ordered.
• D. Contact legal counsel before any discussion.

Answer: (A)

When a policy and a physician’s order clash, the nurse should pause to verify the exact policy language, then open a dialogue with the physician to clarify intent or adjust the order. If a safe alternative exists that complies with policy and still meets the patient’s needs, offer it and carry it out while documenting the rationale and the discussion. If agreement isn’t reached or safety is at risk, escalate to the appropriate supervisor or risk management for guidance and continue to monitor the patient. This approach keeps care safe and compliant, preserves professional communication, and ensures the right people review the discrepancy.

Overriding the order bypasses policy and can create safety or legal risks. Proceeding as ordered while ignoring policy is unsafe. Contacting legal counsel before discussing with the physician is not the appropriate first step and can delay care.