We have done the same in our ED for 20+ years but we were told just recently that standard orders and protocols were beyond our scope of practice. Our supervisor stated that JCHACO forbid nurses from initiating medical orders (IVs, EKGs, any medications) without an order signed by a MD. Of course verbal orders were ok but as was posted above, We do not have time, many times to find the MD and get a verbal order. If this is true, then what about ACLS? Are we not expected to intervene to the best of our abilities and training? Are we lible? We have had very good relationships with our MDs but if my licience is in jeperdy with every IV start . . . how much can I trust the good feelings of our MD coworkers?