LEC - 5 - Types of Medi... Flashcards
Written directions provided by a prescribing practitioner for a specific medication to be administered to an individual.
Medication Order
Pro re nata (PRN) medications are given on an “as needed” basis for specific signs and symptoms, based on a nurse’s judgment of safety and patient need. PRN medications can be prescription or over-the-counter.
PRN Medication Order
PRN means
pro re nata, as needed
Signs/Symptoms for PRN Medication
tiredness
increased anxiety or agitation
headache
earache
coughing
sneezing
fever
itching
cramping.
A protocol that includes all information found in the medication order, specific signs and symptoms the medication should be given for, maximum daily dosage, and any special instructions, such as when to call a nurse or the prescribing practitioner.
PRN Protocol
It is required to know when a PRN medication should be given.
NA
A PRN Order Should include:
all information found in the medication order
specific signs and symptoms the medication should be given for
maximum daily dosage
any special instructions
Example of PRN Protocol (Sample)
Mary has a PRN protocol for Paracetamol, 500 mg by mouth every four hours as needed for pain or fever. If Mary has a headache, and she hasn’t received Paracetamol in the past four hours, you can administer the medication according to the protocol.
A written instruction issued by a medical practitioner that authorizes specified persons (e.g., paramedics, registered nurses) to administer and/or supply specified medicines and controlled drugs, often to improve patients’ timely access to medicines.
Standing Order
Requirements for Standing Order
Explanation of why the standing order is required.
Circumstances in which the standing order applies, such as in an emergency.
Competency requirements of the person administering/supplying the medicine.
Conditions for which the standing order applies, like urinary tract infection or asthma.
Medicines that may be supplied or administered under the standing order.
Indications for which the medicine is to be administered and the recommended dose.
Contraindications.
Method of administration.
Period for which the standing order applies. If no specific period is appropriate, it applies until replaced by a new order or canceled in writing
Stat or Now Medication Orders are one-time orders to be given immediately. They should be implemented as soon as possible, within 60 minutes of receipt of the written or electronic order.
STAT Order
A one-time order to be given at a specified time and then discontinued. The order includes the medication, dosage, route, time for administration, and purpose.
Single Order
Single Order should include:
Medication
Dosage
Route
time for administration
purpose.
