This CPD module aims to outline, describe and explain some of the key ethical-legal issues in paramedic practice, and their relation to the concept of consent, a duty of care and negligence. Ethical issues are closely intertwined with legal aspects of care and this module will therefore consider the four ethical principles, focusing on the two key principles of autonomy and nonmaleficence. Ethical and legal aspects of clinical practice are regularly incorporated into paramedic education programmes, but as with many professional issues, theory is perhaps best understood when applied to clinical practice.

Paramedic Practice -