Open AccessProtective Jurisdiction, Patient Autonomy and Paramedics: The Challenges of Applying the Nsw Mental Health Act
Author(s) -
Ruth Townsend,
Morgan Luck
Publication year - 2009
Publication title -
australasian journal of paramedicine
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.177
H-Index - 15
ISSN - 2202-7270
DOI - 10.33151/ajp.7.4.185
Subject(s) - mental health , jurisdiction , autonomy , legislature , nursing , health care , mental healthcare , medicine , psychology , public relations , political science , psychiatry , law
Paramedics form part of the frontline response to mental health care in the community. Changes to mental health laws across the country have seen an increase in the role and responsibilities paramedics have in assessing, treating and managing mental health patients. The increasing complexity of the paramedic role associated with these changes requires a clear understanding of the legal, ethical and organisational requirements that accompany them. This paper will examine the relevant legislative principles and ethical dilemmas that are raised by these changes and will demonstrate the need for further research to assist in the development and implementation of strategies to assist paramedics in providing optimal patient care to a vulnerable section of the community.