The treatment of unconscious or incapacitated patients presents complex legal and ethical challenges that require careful navigation of patient rights, medical standards, and legal obligations. This advanced law course provides a comprehensive analysis of the laws governing emergency treatment, informed consent, surrogate decision-making, end-of-life care, and liability risks when a patient is unable to make medical decisions. The course will explore federal and state laws, case law precedents, constitutional principles, and hospital policies, with a focus on the legal duties of healthcare providers, family members, and courts in making medical decisions on behalf of incapacitated individuals. Students will gain expertise in legal compliance, risk management, and ethical considerations when dealing with these high-stakes medical situations.
Course Objectives
By the end of this course, students will:
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Understand the Legal Framework for Treating Incapacitated Patients – Analyze how federal, state, and common law regulate emergency medical care for unconscious individuals.
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Examine Surrogate Decision-Making Laws – Study the hierarchy of decision-makers when a patient lacks capacity.
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Assess the Role of Advance Directives and Do-Not-Resuscitate (DNR) Orders – Learn how legally binding documents impact medical treatment.
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Identify the Scope and Limits of Emergency Treatment Authority – Determine when healthcare providers can act without explicit consent.
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Analyze Case Law on Liability and Malpractice in Treating Incapacitated Patients – Explore legal consequences for unauthorized treatment or failure to provide care.
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Navigate Ethical and Legal Conflicts in End-of-Life Decisions – Examine how courts resolve disputes over life-sustaining treatment.
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Understand the Role of Guardianship and Conservatorship in Medical Decision-Making – Assess legal procedures for appointing decision-makers.
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Develop Best Practices for Legal and Ethical Compliance – Learn how to protect patient rights and provider liability.
