What is an example of a high-alert medication?

High-alert medications are those that carry a higher risk of causing significant harm to patients when they are used in error. Insulin is a prime example of a high-alert medication because even small errors in dosage can lead to severe hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia, which can have serious health consequences, including coma or death. Consequently, insulin is typically subject to more stringent safety protocols and checks in healthcare settings to prevent medication errors.

In contrast, the other options listed, including ibuprofen, acetaminophen, and cough syrup, are generally considered to have a lower risk of severe harm when administered incorrectly, particularly in the typical doses used for treating common conditions. While these medications can have side effects and may be harmful in excessive amounts, they do not carry the same level of risk associated with dosage errors as insulin does.