Duty of Care

TL;DR

Legal obligation to provide a standard of reasonable care to prevent harm.

What is Duty of Care?

Duty of care refers to the legal and ethical obligation to ensure the safety and well-being of others. In the context of first aid, it means that a first aider must act in the best interest of the casualty, providing care that is reasonable, necessary, and within their level of training.

This duty is particularly relevant for first aiders who may come across an emergency situation either at work, in public, or at home. The concept of duty of care includes the responsibility to avoid actions or omissions that could foreseeably harm others.

When administering first aid, it is crucial to follow established protocols and provide care that aligns with current first aid guidelines. First aiders should ensure that their actions are consistent with their training and do not exceed their level of competence. They must also obtain consent from conscious casualties before providing care and respect the decisions of those who refuse help, provided they are competent to do so.

Failure to act when a duty of care exists, or providing inappropriate care, can lead to legal consequences. Maintaining a high standard of care helps ensure that the best possible outcomes are achieved for those in need of emergency assistance.

Principles of Duty of Care

• Act within Training: Only perform first aid procedures you are trained and competent in.
• Seek Consent: Obtain consent from the casualty before providing first aid.
• Ensure Safety: Make the scene safe to avoid further injury.
• Provide Continuous Care: Do not leave the casualty until professional help takes over.

Takeaway to remember

Duty of care refers to the legal obligation to provide a standard of reasonable care while performing any acts that could foreseeably harm others.

Reference

• First Aid eBook