A Standing Order is a written protocol that authorizes healthcare professionals, such as nurses or medical assistants, to carry out specific clinical tasks without needing a direct order from a physician each time. The difference between STAT and routine orders lies in the urgency and timing of medical actions. STAT orders are executed immediately to address urgent or life-threatening situations, while routine orders are scheduled as part of regular medical care and do not require immediate action.
Standing orders are pivotal in phlebotomy, streamlining procedures and boosting efficiency. They enable phlebotomists and healthcare professionals to carry out tasks such as blood draws with a single physician's approval for multiple intervals, guaranteeing prompt patient care. In phlebotomy, STAT orders require immediate collection and processing of blood samples for urgent medical needs, whereas routine orders adhere to a standard schedule within the regular patient care framework. This system prioritizes urgent cases while keeping the workflow organized for non-critical tasks. Standing orders, along with a clear understanding of STAT versus routine orders, empower phlebotomists to act quickly and with certainty, ensuring the delivery of high-quality patient care and effective health outcomes. Orders can only be changed by a physician.
All requisitions must include a standing order or be marked as 'STAT', and must be explicitly written by the physician.