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Am I liable for treating my neighbor's injured child?

Am I liable for treating my neighbor's injured child?

Q: When should I take my child to the doctor for a cut?

You should take your child to the doctor for a cut if it is deep, won't stop bleeding after 10 minutes of pressure, shows signs of infection (like redness or pus), or if it is on the face or over a joint. Additionally, if the cut is caused by a dirty or rusty object, medical attention is recommended to prevent infection.

Full question:

My neighbor’s son while playing in our garden got hurt. In order to stop the bleeding I had to give this child a few stitches. The wound is taking too long to heal and the parents are blaming me for the help. I am a registered doctor and I know that the wound would soon heal, it just that it will take time. Just in case the parents file a case, will I have to compensate them in any way?

Category: Helping People
Date: 04/07/2025
State: Wyoming

Answer:

As a registered doctor who provided assistance in good faith, you are likely protected under the Good Samaritan law. This means you generally won't be liable for damages unless the parents can prove that your actions were grossly negligent. You can explain that you treated the child to control the bleeding.

In Wyoming, the law states that any licensed physician providing emergency care without compensation is not liable for civil damages for acts performed in good faith (Wyo. Stat. § 1-1-120). This immunity does not apply if your actions were grossly negligent or willful misconduct. Therefore, unless the parents can demonstrate that your care was severely negligent, you should not face liability.

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

How do you know if a child's cut needs stitches?

A child's cut may need stitches if it is deep, gaping, or won't stop bleeding after applying pressure for 10 minutes. If the cut is longer than half an inch or if the edges are jagged, stitches might be necessary. Additionally, if the cut is on the face or over a joint, it's advisable to seek medical attention. Always err on the side of caution and consult a healthcare professional if you're unsure.

When does a cut need stitches for a child?

A cut may require stitches if it is deep enough to expose fat or muscle, if it is longer than half an inch, or if it is located on the face or over a joint. If the bleeding does not stop after 10 minutes of direct pressure, it's also a sign to seek medical care. Prompt attention can help prevent infection and promote better healing.

How do you stop a minor wound from bleeding?

To stop a minor wound from bleeding, apply gentle pressure directly to the wound with a clean cloth or bandage for about 10 minutes. Keep the injured area elevated if possible. Once the bleeding stops, clean the wound with soap and water and cover it with a sterile bandage. If bleeding continues or if the wound looks serious, seek medical attention.