What it means
An order taken over the phone when the provider cannot enter it, used only when needed. Because spoken orders are easy to mishear, the nurse writes or enters the order, reads it back word for word, and gets the provider's confirmation; numbers and drug names may be spelled out. The provider then signs the order within the time set by policy.
For the nurse
Use the read-back every time, and clarify a drug name by spelling it and saying numbers digit by digit ("one five," not "fifteen"). Students and UAP may not take telephone orders.
At a glance
| Also written | telephone orders, phone order, phone orders |
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Related terms
read-back
Writing down a spoken order or test result and reading it back to the person who gave it, so they can confirm it is right.
verbal order
An order for a treatment or drug that a provider speaks aloud, in person or by phone, instead of writing or entering it.