For admissions requiring physician orders, what constitutes the basis for admission?

• A. A nurse's note
• B. A licensed physician's signed, written orders
• C. Family consent only
• D. An educational plan

Answer: (B)

When an admission requires physician orders, the authorization to admit and begin care must come from a licensed physician and be documented in writing. This provides formal medical direction and a clear initial treatment plan that the facility will follow from day one. A nurse’s note may reflect current status and care given, but it does not carry the same legal authority as a physician’s written orders to admit and dictate treatment. Family consent, while important for many decisions, does not by itself authorize medical admission or procedures. An educational plan pertains to learning goals or training, not to medical admission and orders. So the basis for admission is the licensed physician’s signed, written orders.