If a person is a.s.h.a certified ( lifesaving+c.p.r) and comes across an accident or someone being injured, are you in any way obligated to stop and help. I know that there is a moral obligation.
This also applies to health care workers in general ( nurses doctors, etc.) that are not on duty.
I know that it would suck if they didnt stop and do anything, but are there "rules"?
2007-06-29 14:31:45 · 3 answers · asked by charlie B 4 in Health ➔ Other - Health
There is no requirement for someone to stop while off duty. In fact, in the last 10-15 years the bystander assistance has lessened because of the scare of a lawsuit. There is an act in place (in the US) that protects an person who assists in an emergency situation called the Good Samaritan Law. It doesn't stop the actual lawsuit (anyone can sue anyone) but it gives the certified medical person (bystander) some protection. It basically says if a bystander renders aid within the scope of his or her training it is done with good faith to save a life. It does not protect a person who uses medical treatment outside their training. When I teach CPR classes I often use this example. Say someone is coking, you say to him. "I think you are coking." I know first aid, can I help. Then you do abdominal thrusts (Hymlick Maneuver)....that is within your scope of training. Now, if you try some Macgyver move and slice open the windpipe and use a straw to breathe through then you are liable for the damage caused to the person.
2007-06-30 02:33:37 · answer #1 · answered by Cristi Brewer-Allen 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I am an Aussie and over here we are in no way obligated to stop & render assistance.
We also cannot be sued if the assistance we do offer fails to save a life.
However, if we go on in & announce something like "Stand back! I'm a doctor!" & then do something retarded that causes damage that could have reasonably been avoided then we CAN be sued.
2007-06-29 14:41:35 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
In the state of Washington, medical professionals are obligated to stop and render assistance when they can, of course, how anyone proves that you just kept on going and who you are, is beyond me, but that is the law. You are protected by the good samaritan law, ie you cannot be sued if the assistance you render fails to succeed in saving life or stabilizing injury.
2007-06-29 15:47:18 · answer #3 · answered by essentiallysolo 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋