Testing Requirement in ER Before passing Meds and Sending to X-Ray

[nicole1141982]

So someone please provide me with the requirements for correct standard of care in an ER that must be followed for women of childbearing age. I need the pregnancy testing requirements please and thank you in advance. And where I can locate this information in writing.

[Eris Discordia BSN, RN]

It's not a law. There is no law. There is no national, official, legal "standard of care" for pregnant women. A nurse would easily know this.

[hppygr8ful, ASN, RN, EMT-I]

When I was in a car accident a year ago the doc in the ER asked how old I was (55) and when my last period was (about two years) "So no chance you're pregnant?" he asked "Not unless baby Jesus is coming back!" I quipped. off to CT I went with no urine pregnancy test.

Hppy

[Cat365]

As far as x-ray. I would ask the x-ray techs. They know which x-rays can be done without a negative pregnancy test. At my facility all abdominal x-rays require them. Some x-rays can be shielded and some allow a patient to sign a waiver. As far as meds, unless it's an emergency I don't pass anything that I wouldn't give during pregnancy. Unless the patient has had a hysterectomy. Tubes being tied, I'm gay, I'm not sexually active, etc don't count. I would check you Hospital's policy for specifics but that's my broad category.

My hospital's policy is rather strict before CT and x-ray from what I understand. Unless it's truely an emergency. I've decided that the techs know all. If I have a question I just ask them.