Legal Implications in Nursing Practice

These flashcards cover key legal concepts and federal/state statutes relevant to nursing practice to help students understand legal implications and reduce legal risks in their future careers.

Constitutional law

Law that derives from the Constitution and its interpretations.

Statutory law

Laws enacted by legislative bodies, such as Congress or state legislatures.

Civil law

Laws relating to the rights of private citizens, including nurse practice acts.

Criminal law

Laws against offenses that are considered harmful to society, including felonies and misdemeanors.

Administrative law

Regulations established by governmental agencies.

Common law

Law derived from judicial decisions instead of statutes.

Nurse practice acts

State laws that regulate the practice of nursing and protect the public.

Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA)

A federal statute aimed at reducing healthcare costs and expanding coverage.

Emergency Medical Treatment and Active Labor Act

Federal law that mandates appropriate screening and stabilization before patient transfer.

Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA)

A federal law that protects patient privacy and the security of health information.

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

A civil rights law prohibiting discrimination based on disability.

Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act

Legislation requiring equal treatment for mental health and substance use disorder in insurance.

Patient Self-Determination Act

Requires healthcare institutions to inform patients of their rights regarding treatment decisions.

Uniform Anatomical Gift Act

Establishes a framework for organ donation.

Good Samaritan laws

Laws that provide legal immunity to individuals who assist those who are injured.

Torts

Civil wrongs or omissions leading to legal liability.

Malpractice insurance

Insurance that protects healthcare professionals from legal claims.

Standard of proof

A legal requirement that establishes the level of evidence needed to support a claim.

Risk management

Strategies to prevent potential risks in healthcare practices.

Professional involvement

Engagement in nursing organizations and practices that reduce legal risks.