Before contacting medical direction for authorization to assist a shortness of breath patient with his or her metered-dose inhaler, protocols state that the EMT must first attempt to provide relief by administering oxygen. You recognize that the administration of oxygen is best described as a(n):

Question

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Administering oxygen to a shortness of breath patient is a standing order, meaning it is a pre-approved action that EMTs are authorized to take without specific medical direction in certain situations. Medical direction must still be contacted for higher-level interventions such as administering medications.

Before Contacting Medical Direction for Authorization to Assist a Shortness