Medical Jurisprudence and Legal Doctrines Flashcards

Vocabulary-style flashcards covering the core principles of medical jurisprudence, ethical standards, and legal doctrines for radiologic technology students.

Medical Jurisprudence

The study of the relationship between Medicine and Law, applying legal principles to medical practice to protect the rights of patients and healthcare professionals.

Medical Ethics

Moral principles that guide healthcare professionals in determining what is morally right and wrong in patient care to manage professional conduct.

Bioethics

A branch of ethics dealing with life and healthcare, concerned with human life, dignity, patient care, and ethical dilemmas.

Autonomy

The fundamental ethical principle that patients have the right to make their own healthcare decisions and may refuse treatment.

Beneficence

The ethical principle to do good, promote patient welfare, and act in the patient's best interest.

Nonmaleficence

The ethical principle to do no harm, prevent injury, and follow radiation protection principles to avoid unnecessary exposure.

Justice

The principle of fair treatment for everyone without discrimination based on age, sex, religion, culture, social status, or financial capacity.

Veracity

The ethical principle of telling the truth, providing honest information, and avoiding deception.

Fidelity

The principle of keeping promises, honoring commitments, and remaining faithful to professional responsibilities.

Confidentiality

The duty to protect patient information and maintain privacy by sharing information only with authorized healthcare personnel.

Radiologic Technologist

A professional whose primary responsibilities include producing high-quality diagnostic images and protecting patients from unnecessary radiation.

Informed Consent

A legal doctrine requiring that a patient receives adequate information about a procedure, its benefits, risks, and alternatives before voluntarily agreeing.

Standard of Care

The expected level of professional practice that requires following protocols and practicing safely.

Corporate Negligence

A doctrine stating the hospital is responsible for providing safe equipment, qualified staff, and safe policies.

Respondeat Superior

A legal doctrine where the employer is liable for an employee's negligence during work, often summarized as 'Employer answers'.

Vicarious Liability

A legal situation where one person or institution becomes liable for another's negligence.

Captain of the Ship

A doctrine identifying the surgeon as the person responsible for the surgical team during an operation.

Apparent Authority

A doctrine that applies when a patient believes a healthcare provider works for the hospital, such as an independent radiologist appearing as hospital staff.

Good Samaritan

Legal protection for those who voluntarily help during emergencies while acting in good faith.

Res Ipsa Loquitur

A Latin phrase meaning 'The thing speaks for itself,' indicating that the injury itself suggests negligence.