mc3, ASN, RN Has 12 years experience. Jan 13, 2013 I have been wanting to use my pulse oximeter, and I brought it in initially when I got the job. I wanted it mainly to gauge where the asthmatic student were at, and to rule out "faking". The District RN told me I couldn't use it because I needed an MD order for it. I accepted her explanation, but that seems silly to me. It's as much a diagnostic tool as a stethescope and BP cuff. Her comment was "well, what would you do if you found a problem?" Well, I'd call the parent or 911 if the neb treatment didn't help, just like any other abnormal finding!I kinda forgot about it after that. I'm curious though, do you need a Dr's order, or not? I think I may re-visit the issue with her...mc3 :) 0 Likes
NutmeggeRN, BSN Specializes in kids. Has 25 years experience. Jan 13, 2013 I have been wanting to use my pulse oximeter, and I brought it in initially when I got the job. I wanted it mainly to gauge where the asthmatic student were at, and to rule out "faking". The District RN told me I couldn't use it because I needed an MD order for it. I accepted her explanation, but that seems silly to me. It's as much a diagnostic tool as a stethescope and BP cuff. Her comment was "well, what would you do if you found a problem?" Well, I'd call the parent or 911 if the neb treatment didn't help, just like any other abnormal finding!I kinda forgot about it after that. I'm curious though, do you need a Dr's order, or not? I think I may re-visit the issue with her...mc3 :)I do not believe you need an order, to keep peace ( and not alienate her) I would re approach and ask if she knows where the rule is, so you can read it to comprehend it more fully. Then if such a rule exists ( Im betting it does not) so be it. If not I would check with your BON for clarification. If it is a rule, might be time to look at getting the rule changed. 0 Likes
