Pediatric critical care and the law: Medical malpractice

Abstract

Although some basic concepts related to medicolegal aspects for the practicing physician have remained unchanged over several years, there is a rapid increase in case-law and new trends emerging in this field. Accordingly, this chapter is divided into three parts. First, a basic overview related to medico-legal civil liability for the practicing physician is discussed, including steps that physicians should consider to minimize this liability. Second, some of the unique legal issues in the practice of pediatric critical care are discussed. Third, several PICUs are in the midst of implementing electronic health records (EHR). The implementation of electronic health records and availability of electronic patient data creates unique challenges and legal issues previously unknown, and key concepts related to these new emerging areas are also discussed.