Legalities Flashcards
What does the Health Professions Act include regarding EMS providers?
It includes the Emergency Medical Technician Regulation, which describes the parameters of care for registered EMS providers in Alberta.
What is the role of the Alberta College of Paramedics (ACP)?
The ACP is required to govern its members to protect the public and advise the Health Disciplines Board on scope of practice, educational requirements, and competencies.
What are some responsibilities of regulated members of the ACP?
- Assess and diagnose
- Provide treatment and interventions
- Make referrals and transport
- Promote health and injury prevention
- Coordinate, supervise, monitor, and evaluate paramedic health services
- Educate and conduct research
What protection does the Emergency Medical Aid Act provide?
It protects individuals from legal action if they provide medical care to the best of their abilities, regardless of the outcome.
What is the minimum staffing requirement for Advanced Life Support (ALS) in Alberta?
Minimum of one ACP and one PCP.
What information can an ambulance attendant disclose to a peace officer?
- Name of a patient
- Date of birth
- Nature of injury or illness
- Time and date of dispatch
- Location of emergency service
- Observations of the scene
What are the penalties for contravening the Emergency Health Services Act?
- Individuals: fine up to $10,000
- Corporations: fine up to $100,000
What circumstances require notification of the Medical Examiner according to the Fatalities Inquiry Act?
- Deaths that are unexplained
- Deaths from violence or accident
- Maternal deaths related to pregnancy
- Deaths from improper treatment
- Deaths during or after operative procedures
What does the Traffic Safety Act state regarding emergency vehicles?
Drivers of emergency vehicles are exempt from distracted driving legislation and must use sirens during emergency responses.
What does the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (FOIP) protect?
It protects personal information and patient confidentiality.
What is the purpose of the Personal Directives Act?
It allows Albertans to choose their medical care in advance, including living wills or do not resuscitate orders.
What is the definition of a ‘person in care’ under the Protection of Persons in Care Act?
Any adult/patient/resident/client of a publicly funded care facility.
What does the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act regulate?
It regulates the control of certain drugs and their precursors.
What does the Mental Health Act govern?
It governs the admission of individuals to psychiatric hospitals against their will, their rights while detained, and their discharge.
What is the purpose of the Occupational Health and Safety Act?
To ensure the health and safety of workers and others at the workplace.
What is the objective of the Transportation of Dangerous Goods Act?
To protect the public and the environment from leaks and spills during the transport of dangerous goods.
What must healthcare facilities and EMS personnel report under the Gunshot & Stab Wound Mandatory Disclosure Act?
- Patient’s name
- Type of injury (gunshot or stab)
- Location of treatment
What is the role of a medical director in an EMS service?
To provide medical control, protocols, and ongoing medical audit for registered EMS providers.
What constitutes patient confidentiality?
No medical information about a patient may be shared without consent from those requiring the information for further medical care.
What is scene preservation and why is it important?
It involves not disturbing a crime scene to avoid compromising evidence.
What is a PCP’s duty regarding patient care?
To respond when called and provide care safely and to the best of their ability.
What is negligence in the context of a PCP’s responsibilities?
Knowing what is required and having the resources to do it, but failing to do so.
What distinguishes gross negligence from regular negligence?
Gross negligence potentially causes greater harm to the patient.
What is the process for cancellation of care by a PCP?
Requires documentation that the patient was informed of risks and advised to seek further medical attention.
What is implied consent in emergency situations?
The assumption that a patient would want help in an emergency, allowing treatment without explicit consent.
What is the standard of care in EMS?
How similarly qualified practitioners would manage patient care in similar circumstances.
What are the two categories of law in Canada?
- Criminal law
- Civil law
What are the three types of consent in healthcare?
- Informed consent 2. Implied consent 3. Parental consent
Informed consent involves parents being contacted and giving consent after understanding potential risks. Implied consent is assumed when parents cannot be contacted.
What is the standard of care?
How similarly qualified practitioners would have managed the patients’ care under the same or similar circumstances.
This standard helps to determine if the care provided meets the expected level of practice.
What are the two categories of law in Canada?
- Criminal law 2. Civil law
Criminal law deals with crimes and punishments, while civil law concerns the rights of private citizens.
What is the legal obligation of an EMS professional regarding unlawful activities?
An EMS professional is bound by law to report any activity that may have violated any of the statutes involved in criminal and/or civil law.
This ensures accountability and adherence to legal standards.
What is a Patient Care Report (PCR)?
An essential document outlining the patient condition, physical findings, and treatment provided.
The PCR is filed with the patient’s medical records and may be used in legal contexts.
What is the purpose of risk management in healthcare?
To manage risks in a project through processes, methods, and tools.
Key actions include assessing risks, determining important risks, and implementing strategies.
What should be documented when a patient refuses transport to a hospital?
- Reason for refusal 2. Explanation of potential adverse effects 3. Option to call back 911 4. Recommendation to visit a doctor/hospital 5. Signed release document with a witness
Documentation is crucial for legal protection and ensuring patient understanding.
What actions can be taken against a PCP providing care beyond their scope of practice?
- Complaint filed with the Alberta College of Paramedics 2. Review by the Conduct and Competency Board 3. Possible suspension, fines, or termination of registration 4. Criminal charges may be laid
Actions depend on the severity of the offense.
True or False: A complaint against a PCP can only be filed by the patient.
False
Complaints can be filed by coworkers or other healthcare providers as well.
Fill in the blank: Risk management provides a disciplined environment for _______.
[proactive decision making]
This approach is essential for anticipating and managing potential risks.
What is required for a patient to be considered competent to make their own medical decisions?
The patient must be legally able to make their own decisions regarding their medical health.
Competence is assessed based on the patient’s understanding and ability to make informed choices.
