What is described as a licensed practitioner's order in medication administration?

A licensed practitioner's order in medication administration is typically referred to as a "doctor's order." This term encompasses the instruction given by the practitioner, which must be followed by those administering medications. A doctor's order usually includes specific details about the medication, such as the dosage, route, frequency, and any necessary administration instructions, ensuring safe and effective patient care.

The other terms, while related, may not capture the specific context of the question as accurately. For example, a prescription is a formal written order for medication typically used in outpatient settings, which might not be directly equivalent to the ongoing orders given in a clinical setting. Medication protocols refer to guidelines for administering medications and may not be individualized for specific patients. A physician's directive could be used similarly but doesn't have the same general usage as the term "doctor's order," which is universally understood in medical settings.