Medical liability and criminal law in emergency medicine

Medical liability is booming. Malpractice can entail both civil and criminal consequences. Besides financial and custodial penalties, at worst the license to practice medicine can be withdrawn. Physicians owe their patients a treatment according to current standards. Furthermore, physicians are obliged to fulfill their duty of care. Nevertheless, the patient's right of self-determination must not be violated. Especially in emergency situations, physicians have to focus on taking protective measures in order to avert further dangers to the health of patients. This article analyses common pitfalls in emergency medical treatment with respect to the legal aspects.