What action is typically included in standing orders for medication administration?

Standing orders for medication administration are designed to guide healthcare professionals in providing care for patients by outlining a set of pre-approved actions or interventions that can be implemented without the need for a direct order from a physician each time medication is needed. These orders are typically used for conditions that are common and require swift intervention, which includes the use of routine orders for common over-the-counter medications.

Using standing orders for routine medications allows healthcare providers to respond quickly and effectively to standard medical situations, improving patient outcomes and streamlining the medication administration process. This is particularly important in settings like emergency rooms or clinics where efficiency and immediacy are crucial.

The other options do not represent typical actions included in standing orders. Direct patient assessment procedures usually require specific clinical judgment and may not be standardized in the same way. Monthly review of patient histories is more of an administrative task that ensures ongoing care but does not fall under the immediate scope of standing orders for medication. Preparation for emergency situations may involve specific protocols, but standing orders are generally more focused on routine, preventative, and non-emergency treatments. Thus, routine orders for common over-the-counter medications are the most representative of what standing orders typically include.