Category: Medical law

Under federal law, specifically the Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act (EMTALA), a medical screening exam (MSE) must be conducted by a "qualified medical person," and for certain conditions, this can include a trained and authorized Registered Nurse (RN). The question of **can a nurse perform a medical screening exam?** depends on their level of licensure, specialized training, and the policies of their employing hospital or clinic. While an RN can perform a screening assessment under the right conditions, a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) generally cannot perform the initial comprehensive exam, and an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) has a much broader scope, including the authority to diagnose.

Approximately 1-2% of all hospital admissions end in a discharge against medical advice (AMA). As a patient, you have fundamental rights regarding your medical treatment and care, but understanding the process and risks involved when you decide to leave before your doctor recommends it is critical. The decision of whether or not can I ask a hospital to discharge me is tied to your right to informed consent and autonomy.

According to federal law, hospitals that participate in Medicare and have emergency departments cannot refuse to provide a medical screening and stabilizing treatment for emergency conditions, regardless of the patient's ability to pay. Outside of these specific emergency requirements, however, the question of whether and when a doctor can refuse to treat a patient is far more complex, involving legal statutes, ethical guidelines, and established professional standards.

According to data from various studies, a significant number of patient harm incidents are linked to failures in meeting established medical protocols. Understanding what does the standard of care include is therefore crucial for patients and providers alike, as it represents the baseline of expected medical treatment.

According to the American Medical Association, a physician is ethically obligated to respond to a patient's medical needs, especially in emergencies, but is not required to accept every new patient. The complex question of 'Does a physician have to see a patient?' involves balancing a physician's autonomy with their professional duties and a patient's need for care.

While medical errors are a leading cause of death, the vast majority of patient care is handled with competence and adherence to protocols. However, in cases of alleged negligence, understanding **what are the 4 D's of medicine** is crucial for anyone seeking to file a medical malpractice claim.

By law, competent adult patients generally have the right to refuse treatment, but many are surprised to learn this does not always mean a hospital cannot mandate you to stay under certain legal circumstances. This fundamental patient right has critical exceptions that are essential to understand.

The medical world runs on the principle of patient autonomy, which is primarily protected by various consent forms. Understanding what are the different medical consent forms is essential for anyone receiving medical care, ensuring you have the legal and ethical right to make decisions about your own body and treatment. This guide will walk you through the most common types of consent forms you may encounter.

While many people associate stitches with doctors, the reality is more complex, with different medical professionals authorized to perform this procedure depending on their training, credentials, and state laws. This guide answers the important question: Who can legally give stitches?

According to the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, millions of adverse medical events occur in the U.S. each year. Understanding **what does tort mean medically?** is vital for comprehending the legal landscape surrounding these incidents, particularly medical malpractice, which is a type of civil wrong.