Extremely confused about protocols and orders sets!

We have multiple protocols, for insulin, heparin, electrolyte replacement, and pain management. However, the provider needs to order that the patient be placed on that protocol, then the relevant orders show on their MAR. Few protocols are universally implemented, though some are (i.e. MRSA screening on admission). Universally implanted protocols should also be implemented into order sets somehow.

It's no wonder you're confused, if your Educator can't even give you a straight answer. That's too bad, because I think that only someone from your facility can give you a straight answer. These issues are totally facility-specific.

That's pretty ridiculous that your educator cannot even answer that question. I would look at your facility policies and procedures and see if anything is addressed regarding "orders per protocol".

Typically a protocol is a series of actions or tasks that can be done without a formal written provider order. An order set is a group of additional orders that occur when a particular order is chosen (e.g. "admit to inpatient" would then open the order set that would require the provider to choose vital signs frequency, diet, activity, etc). Typically the order set will have various options that the provider will have to choose when putting in the order. An order set is still something that needs to be initiated/ordered by the provider; whereas a protocol typically does not.