Dont's
How to Prevent Mishaps and Safeguard Interests
Practice Within Your Expertise
True Legal Consultant advises that professionals treat only cases that align with their:
- Qualifications
- Infrastructure
- Competence and Skill
Why? The legal standard is clear: treating outside your certified qualifications, skill level, or infrastructure may lead to negligence. The higher the risk of a case, the higher the level of required qualifications, skill, and infrastructure. Inadequate resources, except in emergencies, can be considered a deficiency in service.
Recognize and Address Complications Promptly
If complications arise, here’s how to minimize risk:
- Immediate Intervention: Address complications as soon as possible.
- Refer or Transfer When Necessary: If treatment is beyond your capability, refer to an appropriate specialist or transfer the patient in a well-equipped ambulance.
- Accompany the Patient: Whenever possible, accompany or ensure a responsible medical officer accompanies the patient to a facility with adequate resources.
Legal Perspective: Your role is to reduce health risks for the patient without guaranteeing a cure, which aligns with legal expectations.
Safeguarding Medical Professionals in Cases of Patient Death
Certain deaths may present legal sensitivities. Here’s how to handle them professionally:
- Cases of Sudden or Unexpected Death: Document everything thoroughly and involve other doctors as witnesses when possible.
- After Procedure or Injection Deaths: Avoid transferring critically ill or deceased patients to another facility.
- Maintain Complete Records: Continue any necessary life-support measures while completing documentation.
Declaring Death Tactfully
- Complete Documentation First: Ensure your records are accurate and comprehensive.
- Communicate with Compassion: Speak openly with relatives, expressing empathy, and confirming the inevitability of death.
- Present Yourself Professionally: Ideally, the chief doctor should deliver the news to avoid miscommunication or further distress. Avoid discussions about pending bills, police notification, or any other administrative issues at the time of declaration.