Which of the following is a skill EMT-B can perform without medical direction?

• A. Endotracheal intubation
• B. Glucometry
• C. Intravenous catheter insertion
• D. Medication administration with physician order

Answer: (B)

Measuring a patient’s blood glucose with a finger-stick is a basic, self-contained skill that EMT-Bs can perform without medical direction. It fits into the rapid assessment of anyone with altered mental status or symptoms like weakness or dizziness, because a low glucose value immediately guides treatment decisions. If the reading shows hypoglycemia and the patient can swallow, you can provide oral glucose per protocol. If they can’t protect their airway or swallow safely, you follow the established protocol for higher-level care.

The other options involve more advanced procedures or require direct medical oversight. Endotracheal intubation is an advanced airway skill reserved for higher levels of EMS training. Inserting an IV line is an invasive procedure typically outside the EMT-B scope. Administering medications with a physician’s order requires medical direction or standing orders. Glucometry, by contrast, is designed to be performed independently by EMT-Bs, making it the correct choice for something done without medical direction.