What must verbal/telephone orders contain that validates the order?

Verbal or telephone orders in a medical setting need to include certain elements to ensure they are valid and can be acted upon with appropriate authority. One critical component is the date and time of the order. This information is essential for several reasons: it establishes when the order was issued, which is necessary for tracking patient care and for evaluating the timeliness and appropriateness of treatment.

Including the date and time helps ensure that the medical team is on the same page regarding a patient's treatment plan and allows for proper documentation in the patient's medical record. It also assists in legal contexts where the timing of treatment can be important.

While the signature of the physician, diagnosis of the patient, and patient’s consent are important in the broader context of medical orders and patient care, they are not specifically required to validate a verbal or telephone order. The focus on time and date is crucial for maintaining clear communication and continuity of care among healthcare providers.