Which term describes a physician's order given to an RN or LPN by a physician, dentist or podiatrist?

• A. Delegated Medical Act
• B. Common Law
• C. Depositions
• D. Damages

Answer: (A)

Delegated Medical Act describes a physician’s order given to an RN or LPN to perform a specific medical act. It’s a formal delegation where the physician, dentist, or podiatrist authorizes the nurse to carry out a particular procedure or treatment within the nurse’s scope, under predefined conditions and protocols. The nurse must perform the act competently, follow the plan, monitor the patient, and document the outcomes, with the physician retaining accountability for the overall plan of care but transferring execution to the nurse under that delegation.

This differs from Common Law, which governs duties and rights arising from broader legal relationships and court decisions rather than a specific act delegation. Depositions are sworn statements used in legal proceedings, and damages refer to compensation awarded for harm.