The use of standing orders and treatment protocols are BEST described as:

a. The emergency care provider following the orders and advise of an on-scene physician
b. The administration of morphine following on-line medical consultation
c. The independent authority granted to prehospital care providers a consequence of the Controlled Substance Act
d. Treatments that are rendered to treat specific presenting signs and symptoms prior to contacting medical direction

d
Rationale: a. This describes face-to-face transfer of orders from physician to paramedic.
b. This describes the function of on-line medical direction.
c. No such authority exists. The CSA regulated and controlled narcotics and other dangerous drugs by classifying them.
d. Treatments of specific presenting signs and symptoms may be treated when standing orders and protocols are in place and under the direction of off-line medical direction.