The Difference between a Medical Directive & Delegation
It is important to understand that Medical Directives and Delegation are two completely different processes. Delegation is the transfer of legal authority (from a healthcare professional who has the authority to perform a controlled act to a healthcare professional who does not), whereas a Medical Directive is a type of order.
As outlined previously, there are two types of orders:
1. A Direct Order (naming an individual patient)
2. A Medical Directive (for a broad group/type of patient)
The flowchart below may help you determine whether an order or both an order and delegation is required.
Does the task fall under a controlled act authorized to RTs?
Yes
No
An Order is required
An Order is required