What type of physician instructions can be given directly by radio or cell phone?

The term that refers to instructions provided directly by radio or cell phone is online medical direction. This occurs when an EMT or paramedic communicates in real-time with a physician or medical control to receive guidance on patient care, especially in emergency situations. Online medical direction allows for immediate feedback and specific instructions tailored to a patient's condition at that moment, which is crucial in fast-paced emergency environments.

While medical control is a broad term that encompasses both online and offline functions, online medical direction is the more precise term for the direct communication that takes place over devices like radios or cell phones. This is especially important in situations where paramedics need to rapidly assess a patient's needs and receive interventions that might not be covered in standing orders or protocols.

Understanding the distinction between online medical direction and other options helps clarify the nature of effective communication in emergency medical services, allowing for prompt and appropriate patient care decisions.