Last Updated on April 27, 2023 by CPR Training

Legalities of Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation

Would you be nervous to perform CPR in an emergency because you are nervous about legal actions if something goes wrong? The legal side of CPR is important. We have all been there; an emergency may happen, and so we want to do something to save someone’s life without worry.

First Aid Training

Some people in the US have undergone safety training and can give first aid. Giving a quicker response to those who are in danger is needed so it may save their life. In the US, the common scenario is most people fall with sudden heart attack, and people who know how to give cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) normally try to help save the patient. Yet, some people are reluctant to help since they consider they can be sued.

Here, we will look at the legal side of CPR and then find out the truth about the first aid response. Around the people side, there may have more misconceptions regarding CPR and the people who require knowing the consequences. Due to this misconception, more people are afraid to help people in an emergency.

What is CPR?

Of course, CPR is the first aid treatment for someone who is suffering from a heart attack. It is a common first aid response for drowning victims. Those who take a full CPR training will receive a certification after successfully completing the course.

The people who are certified in CPR are more useful when it comes to emergencies. But some have the misconception that by stepping in during an emergency can leave them open to liability. The truth is that most often first aid rescuers are protected from being successfully sued when giving aid.

Importance of Providing CPR During an Emergency

CPR is a greatly effective skill, as it can be used to save someone’s life. Those who can give immediate CPR to a victim who needs it is crucial.  Studies show the brain begins to die four to six minutes after a person gets a heart attack. The sooner CPR is started, it provides a greater chance of recovery.

Legalities of Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation – The Legal Side of CPR

Some worry about liability if they willingly step in to give someone CPR or First Aid. One might ponder “What if I make the situation worse?” or “What is I break ribs while doing compressions?” While these concerns are common and valid, Good Samaritan Law was created to protect rescuers in these types of situations.

In the United States, you are protected from being successfully sued while provide care if you do not act in gross negligence. Meaning, one cannot willfully or intentionally cause foreseeable harm or injury to a victim. Good Samaritan Law does not apply to providers who have a “duty to act” or to those who accept compensation for their actions. Keep in mind that the application of the law differs in each state, so be careful to check on the laws in your specific area.

Disclaimer for Legalities of Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation

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