Which statement(s) is/are true regarding the types of medication orders? (Select all that apply.)

Question

a. Stat orders are the same as single dose orders.
b. Standing orders indicate the number of specified doses of a medication to be given.
c. Renewal orders facilitate physician review before continuance of high-risk medications.
d. PRN medications will designate a mandatory number of times the medication is to be administered.
e. Verbal orders should be used as much as possible.

Answer 1

ANS: B, C
Standing orders state the frequency of medication dosages to be administered or indicate the time frame of administration. Renewal orders require the physician to review medications that have "expired orders," as determined by facility policy. Renewal policies facilitate physician verification of the necessity to continue a medication beyond a "usual" time frame and help ensure patient safety. Single dose and stat orders are not the same. PRN medications are not ordered a mandatory number of times, although a maximum number might be specified. Verbal orders should be avoided whenever possible.