What is an example of a STAT order?

A STAT order refers to a medication or treatment that needs to be administered immediately, without delay. In the context of the options provided, a dose of epinephrine for a client experiencing anaphylactic shock is an appropriate example of a STAT order. Anaphylactic shock is a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction that requires urgent treatment to reverse the symptoms, which can progress rapidly. Administering epinephrine immediately can be life-saving, making it essential for healthcare providers to act quickly.

Other options, while important, do not fall under the category of STAT orders. For example, a routine dose of ibuprofen is typically administered on a scheduled basis for managing pain or inflammation, while a scheduled dose of aspirin is given every eight hours as part of a treatment plan. Additionally, preoperative antibiotics are usually given as a preventive measure and are part of a planned regimen, not in response to an immediate life-threatening condition. This differentiates them from the urgency required for administering epinephrine in anaphylactic shock.