Nurse Executive Certification Practice Exam

At what point must the admission orders be written?

1. Within 12 hours of admission

2. At the time of admission

3. Within 24 hours of admission

4. Within 48 hours of admission

The correct answer is: At the time of admission

The requirement for the admission orders to be written at the time of admission is crucial to ensuring patient safety, continuity of care, and the effective functioning of healthcare systems. When admission orders are executed immediately upon a patient's arrival, it allows for prompt initiation of necessary assessments, interventions, and treatments that are vital for addressing the patient's needs. This timeliness is essential for preventing potential deterioration of the patient's condition and minimizes gaps in care. This practice also supports adherence to regulatory standards and institutional policies, emphasizing that the healthcare team must be ready to address the patient’s health needs right from the moment they enter the hospital. Writing admission orders at the time of admission promotes better communication among healthcare providers, ensures all necessary procedures are followed, and sets the foundation for a well-structured care plan moving forward.