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Can I claim Good Samaritan law protection as a doctor?

Can I claim Good Samaritan law protection as a doctor?

Q: What is the first thing you do when you see a victim who might need CPR?

The first thing to do is to assess the situation and ensure it is safe to approach the victim. Then, check for responsiveness by gently shaking the person and shouting. If there is no response, call 911 or ask someone else to call for help while you begin CPR if trained. Remember, acting quickly can be crucial in saving a life.

Q: What is the law called that when you perform CPR on someone but you are not CPR certified you will not get in trouble with the law?

The law that protects individuals who perform CPR in good faith, even if they are not certified, is often referred to as Good Samaritan law. These laws vary by state but generally provide legal protection to those who assist others in emergency situations, shielding them from liability unless gross negligence is involved.

Full question:

I am a doctor. The other day I asked the nurse on duty to administer CPR on a patient. I was attending another emergency patient at that time. Now this patient didn’t respond to the CPR and died. Now the family is blaming me for his death. They say I should not have called the nurse and should have given CPR myself. Can I claim protection under the Good Samaritan law?

Category: Helping People
Subcategory: Good Samaritan Laws
Date: 04/07/2025
State: Utah

Answer:

Yes, you can claim protection under the Good Samaritan law. You instructed the nurse to administer CPR while you attended to another patient, which is a reasonable action. Unless gross negligence is proven, you cannot be held liable for the patient's death. According to Utah law (Utah Code Ann. § 26-8a-601), licensed medical professionals who give instructions in good faith are not liable for civil damages unless their actions are grossly negligent or involve willful misconduct.

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

Is it illegal to refuse to give CPR?

No, it is not illegal to refuse to give CPR. While it is encouraged for bystanders to assist in emergencies, there is no legal obligation for individuals to perform CPR unless they are in a professional capacity or have a specific duty to act. However, Good Samaritan laws may protect those who do provide assistance in good faith from liability, as long as their actions are not grossly negligent.

Can a doctor refuse to do CPR?

Yes, a doctor can refuse to perform CPR in certain situations, such as if they believe it would be futile or if the patient has a do-not-resuscitate (DNR) order. However, doctors are generally expected to provide care in emergencies unless there are valid reasons for refusal. Good Samaritan laws may provide protection for medical professionals who act in good faith during emergencies.

What is the first thing you do when you see a victim who might need CPR?

What is the law called that when you perform CPR on someone but you are not CPR certified you will not get in trouble with the law?

Is a nurse obligated to perform CPR off duty?

A nurse is not legally obligated to perform CPR while off duty. However, if they choose to assist in an emergency, Good Samaritan laws may protect them from liability as long as they act in good faith and without gross negligence. It is always advisable for healthcare professionals to be aware of their state's specific laws regarding emergency care.