Which of the following is an example of a high-alert medication?

High-alert medications are drugs that have a heightened risk of causing significant harm when they are used in error. Insulin is a prime example of such a medication. It is critical for regulating blood glucose levels in patients with diabetes, but dosing errors—whether through an incorrect dose or timing—can lead to severe hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia, both of which can have serious, potentially life-threatening consequences.

In clinical settings, insulin is often subject to specific safety measures to minimize risks, such as double-checking doses and requiring additional verification from another healthcare professional before administration. This heightened level of caution is not typically required for medications like acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or amoxicillin, which, while they can still pose risks if misused, generally do not carry the same level of critical immediate consequences that result from mistakes with insulin.

Therefore, recognizing insulin as a high-alert medication helps healthcare professionals prioritize safety measures and enhance the overall quality of patient care.