Dependent interventions require what?

• A. Physician orders or protocols
• B. No order required
• C. Only nursing judgment
• D. Patient consent only

Answer: (A)

Dependent interventions rely on an external plan to guide action, specifically physician orders or approved protocols. These actions—such as administering medications, performing certain procedures, or initiating specific treatments—are part of the medical plan and require someone with authority to authorize them. The nurse implements what the prescriber has ordered or what the facility’s protocols permit, so patient safety and consistency with the overall treatment plan are maintained.

Relying on nursing judgment alone isn’t sufficient for these interventions because they are tied to a clinician-directed plan. Patient consent matters for participation in care, but it does not authorize performing an intervention by itself if there isn’t an accompanying order or protocol.