If an EMT has any doubt on the validity of a MOLST or CC/DNR, what should they do?

If an EMT has any doubt on the validity of a MOLST or CC/DNR, what should they do?

• A. Begin resuscitation measures at the highest level they are trained to perform.
• B. Do not perform any resuscitation and transport
• C. Wait for supervisor
• D. Ignore MOLST and proceed as full resuscitation

Answer: (A)

When there’s any doubt about the validity or applicability of a MOLST or CC/DNR, you cannot withhold life-sustaining care. The safest, most appropriate course is to preserve life by starting resuscitation at the highest level you are trained to perform. This approach protects the patient in case the order is not valid, expired, or unclear, and it allows time to verify the order with medical control or obtain a clearer document while you continue transport. Delaying resuscitation or ignoring the possibility that the order isn’t valid could mean missing a chance to save a life, so the default in doubt is to initiate full resuscitation and seek confirmation as you proceed.

When there’s any doubt about the validity or applicability of a MOLST or CC/DNR, you cannot withhold life-sustaining care. The safest, most appropriate course is to preserve life by starting resuscitation at the highest level you are trained to perform. This approach protects the patient in case the order is not valid, expired, or unclear, and it allows time to verify the order with medical control or obtain a clearer document while you continue transport. Delaying resuscitation or ignoring the possibility that the order isn’t valid could mean missing a chance to save a life, so the default in doubt is to initiate full resuscitation and seek confirmation as you proceed.