New York State Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Practice Exam

Which of the following statements about standing orders is the MOST accurate?

1. Standing orders have less legal authority than orders given via radio

2. Standing orders require you to contact medical control first

3. Standing orders only highlight the care that you may provide

4. Standing orders should be followed when physician contact is not possible

The correct answer is: Standing orders should be followed when physician contact is not possible

Standing orders are a crucial aspect of prehospital care, allowing EMTs and paramedics to provide specific interventions without direct communication with a physician. The most accurate statement about standing orders is that they should be followed when physician contact is not possible. This means that when immediate treatment is necessary and contacting medical control may delay patient care, standing orders provide a clear guideline for the actions that can be taken by EMTs. This allows for timely decision-making in emergency situations, where every second counts. Standing orders are developed by medical directors and encompass a range of protocols for various medical emergencies, ensuring that EMTs can operate effectively within their scope of practice even in the absence of direct oversight. In contrast, statements suggesting that standing orders have less legal authority than radio orders or require prior physician contact do not accurately represent their function. Standing orders are established protocols that hold significant authority in guiding emergency medical treatment, just as direct orders from medical control would. Furthermore, standing orders are designed to empower EMTs to act independently when necessary, rather than requiring prior communication with a physician for every decision. Thus, the accurate characterization of standing orders reflects their role as essential tools for patient care, particularly in situations where immediate action is crucial.