A protocol is a detailed, written plan specifying the steps for assessment and treatment in particular clinical situations. It offers a framework to guide healthcare professionals in a consistent and evidence-based manner. A standing order, in contrast, is a pre-approved set of instructions for specific clinical interventions, allowing qualified personnel to administer medications or treatments without direct physician examination in advance. For example, a protocol might detail the steps for managing anaphylaxis, while a standing order could authorize nurses to administer epinephrine in such an event.
The implementation of standardized procedures, whether in the form of comprehensive guides or pre-authorized instructions, promotes patient safety by minimizing variation in care. It contributes to improved outcomes and reduced medical errors. Historically, such instruments evolved from a need for consistent patient care in various settings, particularly in emergency situations and remote locations where immediate physician access may be limited.
