1
We are more likely to comply when the person
making the request has authority over us
Hofling et al. (1966)
“This is Dr. Smith, from Psychiatry, calling. I was asked
to see Mr. Jones this morning, and I’m going to have
to see him again tonight. I don’t have a lot of time, and
I’d like him to have some medication by the time I get
to the ward. Will you please check your medicine
cabinet and see if you have some Astroten?
That’s A-S-T-R-O-T-E-N.
Reasons for the Nurse Not to Obey
zThe prescription was given by phone, in direct
violation of hospital policy.
zThe medication had not been cleared for use
nor placed on the ward stock list.
zThe prescribed dosage was dangerous.
zThe directive was given by a man the nurse had
never met.
