West Coast EMT Block One Exam

In what scenario might an EMT face legal issues regarding duty?

1. Responding late to a scene after a report.

2. Leaving a scene prematurely.

3. Failing to act outside of their shift.

4. Providing care on a voluntary basis.

The correct answer is: Leaving a scene prematurely.

Leaving a scene prematurely can indeed lead to legal issues for an EMT regarding their duty. When an EMT arrives at a scene, they have a legal and ethical responsibility to provide care until it is safe to leave or until someone with equal or higher medical training takes over. Departing from the scene before ensuring that the patient is stable or transferring care appropriately could result in adverse outcomes for the patient. This can expose the EMT to liability for abandonment, as it may be perceived that they failed to fulfill their duty of care, potentially leaving the patient without necessary medical attention. In contrast, the other scenarios do not carry the same direct implications for duty. Responding late may reflect poorly on professionalism but does not inherently breach duty of care. Failing to act outside of their shift typically refers to a situation where the EMT is not on duty; therefore, they are usually not held to the same legal obligations. Providing care on a voluntary basis can also be seen as a positive act of goodwill, as long as the EMT adheres to relevant protocols and standards.