Medical direction has ordered that you administer a medication to a patient that you believe will cause harm to the patient if administered. After reading back the order to medical direction, the physician insists that you give the medication. Which of the following BEST describes your next actions?

a. State your objections, but give the medication per medical controls advice.
b. State your objectives, withhold the medication, and document carefully.
c. Give the medication and carefully observe your patient.
d. Refuse to acknowledge medical direction on the radio and document radio interference on your report.

b
Rationale: a. If you believe that a medication or procedure may unnecessarily harm your patient, you should act in the patients best interest and avoid the medication or procedure.
b. Correct.
c. Knowingly administering a medication or procedure that causes unnecessary harm violates the code of conduct expected of a paramedic and may place you in legal jeopardy.
d. Answer implies unethical behavior.