Out of hospital medical care is a constantly evolving concept. This especially rings true for resuscitations situations, as higher quality interventions and knowledge become more readily available. Although these benefits cannot be disputed, the paramedic more often than not can be put in a unique ethical and legal predicament. Before any attempt at resuscitation the paramedic must consider five ethical principles in order to determine whether the course of action is ethically acceptable in this patient’s situation. These are beneficence, non-maleficence, autonomy, justice and futility. However as health professionals, paramedics must also abide by legal documents such as standing orders, the Human Rights Act 1993, the Health and Disability
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As described by American Heart Association (2010), a truly informed decision involves three steps. Firstly the patient receives and understands information about their condition, possible treatment options, and probable outcomes. Secondly the patient is able to paraphrase the previous information, articulating it in such a manner that the health professional feels they have taken on board the necessary points. Lastly the patient is able to deliberate the options previously outlined to them, and is able to make a cognitive decision with justification for their choice. In situations when the patient’s preference of treatment is unknown or uncertain, the health professional is able to treat emergency conditions until such information becomes available. Advance directives, living wills or a Do Not Attempt Resuscitation (DNAR) order are examples of information that can provide the health professional with insight into the patient’s wishes if they are unable to articulate their decisions for themselves (Lippert et al., 2010). A family member may also be able to make these decisions if the patient unexpectedly becomes incapacitated, however as stated previously they must meet the requirements of informed consent (American Heart Association,
As described by American Heart Association (2010), a truly informed decision involves three steps. Firstly the patient receives and understands information about their condition, possible treatment options, and probable outcomes. Secondly the patient is able to paraphrase the previous information, articulating it in such a manner that the health professional feels they have taken on board the necessary points. Lastly the patient is able to deliberate the options previously outlined to them, and is able to make a cognitive decision with justification for their choice. In situations when the patient’s preference of treatment is unknown or uncertain, the health professional is able to treat emergency conditions until such information becomes available. Advance directives, living wills or a Do Not Attempt Resuscitation (DNAR) order are examples of information that can provide the health professional with insight into the patient’s wishes if they are unable to articulate their decisions for themselves (Lippert et al., 2010). A family member may also be able to make these decisions if the patient unexpectedly becomes incapacitated, however as stated previously they must meet the requirements of informed consent (American Heart Association,