What are the legal considerations in giving first aid?

Answer 1

The First Aider / First responder is covered by the 'Good Samaritans Law'.This law states: A first responder must not attempt to do anything they are not qualified to do. It is perfectly acceptable for a first aider to do all they can to support and to sustain life and to prevent further injury.A first aider is not protected legally if they act irresponsibly, inappropriately or negligently - i.e. they fail to do what any reasonable person would do with similar training / qualifications under similar circumstances.Consent must be obtained from the victim if conscious before first aid can be administered. If the victim is a child, mentally handicapped or unconscious and is unable to give consent, then a parent, guardian or responsible family member must consent before first aid can be administered. If none con be obtained then first aid can be administered under 'implied consent'.

Answer 2

Well the Good Samaritans Act was meant to protect those providing first aid from prosecution for there actions or inaction's. But lawyers need money and people want money for there own stupidity so the law suit was developed. Some people just can't walk away when someone is hurt, but some do and people die as a result.

When rendering first aid you must identify your self and confirm you know first aid and ask if they need assistance. If they say yes, you have consent to render aid. If the say no, then just observe and report to the ambulance personnel. If the are unconscious then consent is automatically given. If they are a "walking wounded", they will drop at some point and then aid can be rendered.

The concern is that once you start aid, you can't leave the casualty until the paramedics arrive, you can only turn over first aid to another first aider who has the same level or higher level as you do. Doctors for example can't render first aid in many places due to the legalities, there are cases of Doctors being sued for rendering first aid, then there are Doctor's who have been sued for failing to render first aid.

Check with your local first aid training facility they will be able to tell you what laws apply to your area for the provision of first aid.

Answer 3

14 and up is considered adult. Always ask a minor's guardian before treating.