Which abbreviation means "by mouth"?

A. Call the physician and have the order clarified: Ambiguous or unclear medication orders must always be clarified directly with the prescribing provider to prevent medication errors and ensure patient safety.

B. Administer the medication twice a day and as needed: Giving medication without clarification risks overdose or underdose due to unclear dose range.

C. Talk to the unit secretary on the floor who is good at reading the physician's handwriting: Only the prescriber can legally clarify or change an order, not clerical staff.

D. Consult a pharmacist to interpret the order: While pharmacists can offer guidance, they cannot confirm intent; the prescriber must clarify the specific dose and frequency.

A. STAT Order.: A STAT order is for medication that must be administered immediately, usually in emergency or urgent situations. It is a one-time order that requires prompt action and is not given on an as-needed basis.

B. Standing Order.: A standing order is a pre-established protocol allowing nurses to administer specific medications or treatments under defined conditions without obtaining a new order each time. It is typically used for standard care procedures rather than individualized pain management.

C. PRN Order.: A PRN (pro re nata) order means “as needed.” It allows the nurse to administer medication when the patient reports symptoms such as pain, nausea, or anxiety. In this case, postoperative pain medication prescribed as needed is a PRN order.

D. Routine Order.: A routine order specifies medications to be given at regular, scheduled intervals, such as daily or every 8 hours. It does not depend on the patient’s symptom presentation like a PRN order does.