Types of Medical Orders

Question 1

Routine Order

Answer 1

• is carried out as specified until it is canceled by another order
• specific set of written orders for all their hospitalized patients
• also referred as standing orders
• a practitioner may write a routine or standing order with specific limitations; that is, the prescriber specifies that a certain order is to be carried out for a stated number of days or times
• after the stated period has passed, the order is discontinued automatically.

Question 2

PRN order (as needed)

Answer 2

• patient receives medication when it is requested or required, and when the specifics of the order (particularly clinical parameters or timing between doses) are met.
• the medications used for pain relief, to relieve nausea, and for sleep aids are often written as this

Question 3

One-time order

Answer 3

• directive is carried out only once, at a time specified by the prescriber

Question 4

Single Order

Answer 4

medication to be administered immediately before surgery

Question 5

Stat Order

Answer 5

• a single order that is carried out IMMEDIATELY