EMS Professional Ethics & Communication 3

Question 1

A pediatric patient is 14 years old and refuses care while a parent is demanding treatment. Who has legal authority to make the medical decision?

Accepted Answer

The parent, as the minor's legal guardian

Answer

Minors cannot legally consent to or refuse medical care; a parent or legal guardian holds decision-making authority except in emergencies.

Question 2

Non-malfeasance as an EMS ethical principle means:

Accepted Answer

Avoiding actions that cause unnecessary harm to the patient

Answer

Non-malfeasance, derived from 'first, do no harm,' obligates EMS providers to avoid interventions that cause unnecessary harm.

Question 3

When communicating with a patient who speaks limited English, the best approach is to:

Accepted Answer

Use an interpreter service or trained medical interpreter

Answer

Professional interpreter services ensure accurate translation of medical information and protect against miscommunication that could affect patient care.

Question 4

An EMT discovers a living will in a patient's home indicating DNR status. The patient is now in cardiac arrest. What should the EMT do?

Accepted Answer

Withhold resuscitation if the DNR is valid and properly executed per state law

Answer

A properly executed DNR or advance directive must be honored; EMTs should follow state protocols for verifying and honoring such documents.

Question 5

Which action by an EMT constitutes abandonment?

Accepted Answer

Leaving a patient who requires ongoing care without transferring responsibility to an equal or higher level of provider

Answer

Abandonment occurs when care is terminated without ensuring continuity through transfer to an appropriate provider.

(EMS) Emergency Medical Services Certified Practice Test

(EMS) Emergency Medical Services Certified Practice Test

EMS Professional Ethics & Communication 3