What should a paramedic do if they believe a physician's orders are harmful?

• A. Ignore orders
• B. Voice concerns, contact Medical Control, and follow their directives.
• C. Immediately stop patient care
• D. Document the incident and wait for supervisor

Answer: (B)

When a paramedic suspects a physician’s order could harm a patient, the priority is patient safety and getting the right guidance. The proper move is to voice the concern clearly, contact Medical Control, and follow the directives provided by Medical Control. This ensures there’s real-time medical input, helps clarify any unsafe aspects, and aligns actions with EMS protocols and the patient’s current condition. Simply ignoring the order risks ongoing harm; stopping care immediately or waiting for a supervisor while not obtaining guidance can cause delays or gaps in treatment. By communicating what seems unsafe, seeking clarification, and adhering to Medical Control’s direction, you protect the patient and keep the plan medically sound.