Assisted living facilities give older adults a sense of independence, even though these adults need help with daily activities. Typically, the staff at these facilities is available around the clock to assist residents. Because of the nature of assisted living facilities, staff and/or residents might become involved with helping someone in distress. Although this help is often necessary, it can involve complex challenges, including possible legal issues.

Good Samaritan doctrine is a legal principle that prevents a rescuer who has voluntarily helped a victim in distress from being sued for "wrongdoing." Its purpose is to encourage people to help strangers in need without fear of legal repercussions should they make a mistake in treatment.

Good Samaritan laws vary from jurisdiction to jurisdiction and generally do not apply to medical professionals or career emergency responders while on the job. Some of these laws, however, extend protection to professional rescuers when they are acting in a volunteer capacity.

What are the conflicts? How does the professional code of ethics apply to this situation?

Post an explanation of your position regarding whether the Good Samaritan law applies to a registered nurse working at an assisted living facility in your state or region. Explain whether the nurse might have an ethical or legal obligation to provide CPR. Support your position by referencing your state's or region's Good Samaritan law, the ACHE Code of Ethics, and ethical standards.

CBS News. (2013, March 4). 911 recording: Nurse refuses to give CPR to dying womanLinks to an external site. [Video file]. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RsxzFq35NNQ