What does the term 'order mode' describe in the context of emergency department workflows?

The term 'order mode' in the context of emergency department workflows specifically refers to the manner in which an order was initiated. This can encompass various formats in which orders are created, such as electronic entry, verbal orders, or written requests. Understanding order mode is crucial because it impacts how efficiently orders are processed and whether there might be any lapses or misunderstandings in communication. This notion is especially significant in fast-paced environments like emergency departments, where timely actions based on orders can be essential for patient care.

In contrast, the communication method used for patient orders relates to how information is conveyed but doesn’t specify the initiation type. The process for ordering test results involves the follow-up on previously placed orders rather than the initial creation of those orders. The technique for prioritizing patient orders addresses the urgency and necessity of orders already placed, rather than how those orders were initiated in the first place. Therefore, the emphasis on how an order is initiated clarifies the meaning of 'order mode' effectively.