Which medications are acceptable for range orders?

Medications that fall under range orders provide flexibility in dosing based on the individual patient's needs, allowing for adjustments within specified limits. Opioids, antitussives, and antihypertensives often require careful dosing to ensure effectiveness while minimizing the risk of adverse effects, making them suitable for range ordering.

For instance, opioids may vary in dosage based on pain levels, while antihypertensives may be adjusted for blood pressure variations. Antitussives also benefit from dose adjustments based on cough severity. Utilizing a range allows healthcare providers to tailor treatment effectively.

In contrast, the other options focus on categories of medications that do not typically require or benefit from such flexible dosing. For example, antipyretics and antibiotics are generally provided at a fixed dosing schedule based on standard guidelines rather than individual patient response. This structured approach ensures consistency and minimizes the risk of potential medication errors in these categories. Therefore, the choice of including opioids, antitussives, and antihypertensives for range orders is supported by the need for individualized treatment strategies.