What is the proper action when a resident has a medication order to "continue previous medications" upon returning from the hospital?

In the context of a resident returning from the hospital with a medication order to "continue previous medications," the most appropriate action is to contact the resident's physician for medication orders. This step is crucial to ensure that the medications being administered are still appropriate and relevant to the resident's current condition.

Since the resident has been hospitalized, their health status may have changed, and the physician may have updated instructions that need to be followed. It's essential to verify what medications should be continued, as there might be new orders or changes that were made during the resident's hospital stay. The physician can provide clarity on the current medications needed and ensure the safety and well-being of the resident.

Consulting the pharmacy could be helpful, but it is the physician who has the most up-to-date information regarding the resident's health and medication needs. Checking the resident's file for past orders may provide historical context, but it does not account for any new changes that may have occurred during hospitalization. Therefore, direct communication with the physician is the key action to take in this situation.