Medication Orders and Administration

Orders that prevent a patient from eating or drinking anything.

A document that lists all medications prescribed for a patient, including schedule and administration method.

Evaluating patient's ability to swallow, gastrointestinal issues (e.g., vomiting, diarrhea), muscle mass (for injections), IV access etc. before administering medications.

Patient's capacity to swallow pills or liquids.

The movement of food through the gastrointestinal tract.

Presence of a vein that can be used for IV medication.

Parameters (like blood pressure, pulse) that indicate a person's overall health.

Results of tests done in a lab to measure various substances e.g Digoxin levels; and others that can help measure certain substances in a patient's body.

These orders are written for a patient and remain in effect until they are discontinued or the patient is discharged.

These orders allow medication to be given as needed, requiring an assessment and judgment by the nurse.

A set of instructions for handling specific situations, often on certain units like emergency rooms or cardiac units.

These orders are given for a single dose of medication, often preoperatively or in emergencies.

These orders adjust the medication dosage based on lab results or values.

These orders are given verbally, often in emergencies, and require documentation.

Patient Controlled Analgesia, a system that allows patients to self-administer pain medication.

Common PCA medications include Morphine and Dilaudid.

A comprehensive evaluation of a patient's physical condition (e.g., blood pressure, breath sounds, pulse oximetry) before administering a medication.

Evaluating a patient's response to a medication by examining physical condition (e.g., blood pressure, breath sounds, pulse oximetry) after administration.

Evaluating a patient's understanding and willingness to follow medication instructions.

Discrepancies between the intended medication and what the patient actually receives, potentially leading to adverse effects.

Medications with a higher probability of causing harm if administered incorrectly.

Procedures and safeguards to prevent medication errors and adverse effects, especially with high-risk medications.

Unwanted reactions or complications resulting from medication administration.

Documenting and reporting medication administration mistakes to help identify trends and improve safety procedures.