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

A high-alert medication is one that has a higher risk of causing significant harm to a patient if it is used in error. Insulin is a prime example of a high-alert medication due to its critical role in managing blood glucose levels in individuals with diabetes. Administering the wrong dose of insulin can lead to severe hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia, both of which can result in serious consequences.

The nature of insulin as a medication requires careful dosage calculations, monitoring, and patient management, making it essential to take extra precautions when handling it in clinical settings. This heightened risk and the potential for adverse effects underscore its classification as a high-alert medication, heavily emphasizing the need for vigilance, double-checking, and specific protocols around its use.

In contrast, the other options like acetaminophen, omeprazole, and loratadine are generally considered to have a lower risk profile concerning serious harm resulting from dosing errors, making them not fall under the category of high-alert medications.