Medical Law And Ethics Final Exam

Libel refers to written, printed, or pictorial statements that harm someone's reputation. Unlike slander, which is spoken defamation, libel involves the dissemination of damaging information through written or printed media. Assault, on the other hand, refers to physical harm or the threat of physical harm, while usury refers to the illegal practice of charging excessive interest rates on loans. Therefore, libel is the correct answer as it specifically pertains to damaging statements made in written or printed form.

Parens patriae is the correct answer because it refers to the authority of the state to take responsibility for the care and custody of minors under the age of 18 when the parents are unable or unwilling to fulfill their role. This concept allows the state to act in the best interests of the child and protect their rights and well-being.

Chromosomes are thread-like structures within the nucleus of a cell that carry and transmit genetic information. They are made up of DNA molecules that contain the genes, which are the units of heredity. Chromosomes play a crucial role in the inheritance and expression of traits, as they contain the instructions for the development and functioning of an organism.

Insurance companies, HMOs, and government policies are examples of third-party payers. Third-party payers are entities or organizations that are not directly involved in the provision of healthcare services but instead pay for the healthcare services on behalf of the patient. In this case, insurance companies, HMOs, and government policies act as intermediaries between the patient and the healthcare provider, reimbursing the provider for the cost of the services rendered.

Dereliction refers to the act of neglecting one's duty or responsibility. It implies a failure to fulfill obligations or perform required tasks. In the context of the given question, dereliction is the appropriate term that conveys the meaning of neglect of duty.

The method of documentation in medical records that focuses on the patient's problems, not just on the diagnosis is known as POMR (Problem-Oriented Medical Record). This approach involves organizing the medical record around a list of the patient's problems, with each problem being clearly defined and addressed separately. The POMR system allows healthcare professionals to have a comprehensive view of the patient's health issues and facilitates effective communication and coordination among the healthcare team.

A health maintenance organization (HMO) is a type of health care system that falls under managed care and uses capitation. In an HMO, individuals pay a fixed monthly fee and receive comprehensive health care services from a network of providers. The providers are paid a set amount per patient, regardless of the services provided. This encourages preventive care and cost-effective management of health care resources.

A direct cause is a continuous sequence of events that leads to an injury, without any intervening cause. In other words, it is the primary cause that directly results in the injury, and without it, the injury would not have occurred.

Amniocentesis is a test used to detect genetic defects by withdrawing a small amount of amniotic fluid surrounding the fetus in the uterus. This procedure involves using a needle to collect the fluid, which contains fetal cells that can be analyzed for genetic abnormalities. Embryocentesis is not the correct answer as it refers to the sampling of cells from an embryo, not the amniotic fluid. "In utero" refers to something happening inside the uterus, but it does not specifically describe the test being performed. "In vitro" refers to procedures conducted outside the body, such as in a laboratory, and is not applicable to this test.

When a patient decides to leave a hospital without the permission of their physician, it is referred to as "against medical advice" (AMA). This means that the patient is choosing to disregard the recommendations and instructions of their healthcare provider, potentially putting their health at risk. This term is used to document and communicate the patient's decision to leave the hospital without following the prescribed course of treatment.

Health care organizations that are covered under HIPAA are referred to as covered entities. This term encompasses various entities such as health plans, health care providers, and health care clearinghouses. These covered entities are required to comply with HIPAA regulations to ensure the privacy and security of individuals' protected health information (PHI). By being designated as covered entities, these organizations are responsible for implementing safeguards and procedures to protect PHI and uphold the rights of individuals in relation to their health information.

In a legal context, the person who initiates a lawsuit by bringing a claim or complaint against another party is known as the plaintiff. The plaintiff is responsible for presenting their case and seeking a legal remedy or compensation for the alleged wrongdoing or harm caused by the defendant. They have the burden of proof to demonstrate that their claims are valid and should be addressed by the court. The term "plaintiff" is commonly used in civil law systems to refer to the party who files a lawsuit.

Reciprocity refers to the practice of granting credentials or licenses to individuals based on their qualifications or credentials from another state. This means that if someone has already been granted a license or certification in one state, they can apply for and potentially receive the same credentials in another state without having to go through the entire application process again. It is a way to acknowledge and accept the qualifications obtained in one state as valid in another state.

A precedent is a past case that serves as a future model. It means that when a court makes a decision on a particular legal issue, that decision becomes a precedent that other courts can follow in similar cases. Precedents provide guidance and establish a legal principle that should be followed in future cases with similar facts or legal issues. They help ensure consistency and predictability in the legal system.

HIPAA, which stands for Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act, is a legislation enacted in 1996 that regulates the privacy of patients' health information. It sets standards for the protection of sensitive medical records and personal health information, ensuring that healthcare providers, health plans, and other entities handle patient data securely and maintain confidentiality. HIPAA aims to safeguard individuals' privacy rights and prevent unauthorized access, use, or disclosure of their health information, promoting trust and confidence in the healthcare system.

The rate of sick people or cases of a disease in relationship to a specific population is known as morbidity rate. This term specifically refers to the frequency or proportion of individuals who have a particular disease within a given population. It helps in understanding the burden of a disease on a population and is often used in public health research and policy-making to track and monitor the occurrence and spread of diseases.

The term "viable" refers to the ability of a fetus to survive outside the uterus. It suggests that the fetus has reached a stage of development where it has a reasonable chance of surviving with medical assistance. The other options, such as "realistic," "premature," and "full term," do not accurately capture the concept of viability in relation to a fetus.

A person who is litigious is inclined to sue. Litigious individuals are prone to initiating legal actions or lawsuits, often seeking legal resolutions for disputes or grievances. This trait suggests a tendency to resort to legal measures to settle conflicts, indicating a readiness to engage in legal proceedings.

The correct answer is DEA, which stands for Drug Enforcement Administration. It is a division of the Department of Justice responsible for enforcing the Controlled Substances Act of 1970. The DEA's main role is to combat the illegal drug trade, regulate the legal distribution of controlled substances, and investigate and prosecute individuals or organizations involved in drug trafficking.

The word "malfeasance" itself implies the act of wrongdoing or misconduct. Therefore, it is clear that malfeasance refers to performing an illegal act.

When a doctor gets paid for referrals, he is guilty of fee splitting. Fee splitting refers to the practice of sharing fees or receiving compensation in exchange for referring patients to other healthcare providers or services. This is considered unethical and can compromise the doctor's professional judgment and the patient's best interests. It is important for doctors to prioritize patient care and make referrals based on medical necessity rather than financial gain.

Ethics is the study of good vs. evil. It is the branch of philosophy that deals with moral principles and values, and seeks to determine what is right and wrong, good and bad. By examining ethical theories and concepts, individuals can gain a deeper understanding of the principles that guide human behavior and decision-making. The repetition of the word "ethics" and "ethic" in the answer options may be a typographical error or a deliberate attempt to confuse, but the correct answer is "Ethics."

The legal obligation to a patient is known as "duty" of care. This refers to the responsibility that healthcare professionals have to provide a certain standard of care to their patients. It includes providing treatment, advice, and support that is in the best interest of the patient, ensuring their safety and well-being. Failure to fulfill this duty can result in legal consequences, such as negligence claims.

Arbitration is the correct answer because it refers to the process of submitting a dispute to a neutral third party, known as an arbitrator, who makes a final decision that is legally binding on both parties involved. This process is an alternative to going to court and having a judge make the final decision. Mediation, on the other hand, involves a mediator who helps facilitate communication and negotiation between the parties, but does not make a final decision. Capitation and application are unrelated terms and do not pertain to submitting a dispute for resolution.

The correct answer is "indigent." Indigent refers to a person who lacks funds or is in a state of extreme poverty. It is a term commonly used to describe individuals who are unable to meet their basic needs due to financial constraints.

Unintentional torts refer to injuries that occur as a result of negligence or failure to exercise a reasonable standard of care. These torts are unintentional because the harm caused was not intended, but rather a consequence of the defendant's careless actions. In contrast, intentional torts involve deliberate harm or wrongdoing, while illegal and unethical actions may or may not result in tort liability depending on the specific circumstances. Thus, the correct answer is "Unintentional" because it accurately describes torts caused by a lack of due care.

A copay is a fixed amount that a patient pays for a covered healthcare service, typically due at the time of service. In the context of managed care plans, a copay is an agreed fee that the patient is responsible for paying out of pocket. It is a form of cost-sharing between the patient and the insurance company, where the patient pays a set amount and the insurance company covers the remaining cost of the service. Therefore, a copay is the correct answer for the given question.

Medicaid is the correct answer because it provides medical coverage specifically for indigent individuals, including pregnant women and children. Tricare is a health insurance program for military personnel and their families. Medicare is a federal health insurance program for individuals aged 65 and older. Medigap is a supplemental insurance plan that helps cover the gaps in Medicare coverage. Therefore, Medicaid is the most appropriate option for providing medical coverage for indigent individuals, particularly pregnant women and children.

To censure is to find fault with, criticize, or condemn. This word implies a strong disapproval or reprimand towards someone or something. It suggests that the action or behavior being criticized is considered unacceptable or deserving of punishment. Therefore, censure is the correct answer as it best aligns with the given definition.

Stem cells are undifferentiated cells that have the ability to differentiate into specialized cells. They are considered master cells because they can generate various types of cells in the body, such as muscle cells, nerve cells, or blood cells. Stem cells play a crucial role in development, tissue repair, and regeneration. By dividing and differentiating, they can replenish damaged or lost cells and contribute to the overall functioning and maintenance of the body.

When the state is the plaintiff, it is referred to as the prosecution. This term is used in legal proceedings to describe the party that brings charges against an individual or entity accused of committing a crime. The prosecution represents the interests of the state and seeks to prove the guilt of the defendant.

TPO stands for "Treatment, Payment, and Operations." These are the functions that a healthcare provider can perform without explicit authorization from the patient. Treatment refers to providing medical care and services, payment refers to billing and insurance processes, and operations refer to the administrative and organizational aspects of healthcare delivery.

Preponderance of the evidence is the less stringent standard by which civil cases are held. This means that in order to prove a case, the evidence presented must show that it is more likely than not that the incident did occur. In other words, the evidence should tip the scales slightly in favor of one party's argument. This standard is different from the "beyond a reasonable doubt" standard used in criminal cases, where the evidence must be much stronger and leave no reasonable doubt in the minds of the jurors.

The Prudent Person Rule asks individuals to consider what other reasonable people would have done in a similar situation. This implies making decisions and taking actions that are cautious, careful, and sensible, based on the standards and expectations of a reasonable person. The rule encourages individuals to act in a manner that is responsible and thoughtful, considering the potential risks and consequences of their actions.

Capitation refers to a fixed fee that is charged for each member of a group or population over a specific time period. This fee is predetermined and remains the same regardless of the level of services provided. It is commonly used in healthcare systems where providers receive a set amount per patient regardless of the actual services rendered. The term capitation accurately describes this payment structure, making it the correct answer.

An expressed contract is an agreement that clearly states all terms, whether it is communicated orally or in writing. This means that both parties involved are fully aware of and understand the terms and conditions of the contract. Unlike an implied contract, which is based on the actions and conduct of the parties involved, an expressed contract explicitly outlines the rights and obligations of each party. Therefore, the correct answer is expressed.

A coroner is a public health officer who is responsible for conducting investigations into deaths that have unknown or violent causes. They are tasked with determining the cause and manner of death, which may involve performing autopsies, collecting evidence, and collaborating with law enforcement agencies. Unlike a homicide investigator who focuses specifically on criminal cases involving death, a coroner's role is broader and encompasses all types of deaths that require further investigation. A mortician, on the other hand, is responsible for preparing bodies for burial or cremation, while a medical examiner is a physician who performs autopsies and determines the cause of death in cases that require further medical expertise.

An unborn child between the second and twelfth week after conception is referred to as an embryo. During this stage of development, the fertilized egg undergoes rapid cell division and begins to form the basic structures and organs of the body. The embryo is still in the early stages of development and is not yet considered a fetus, which occurs after the twelfth week. The terms zygote and blastocyst are used to describe earlier stages of development, with the blastocyst being the stage immediately after fertilization.

Due process refers to the expectation that an individual's rights will be protected. It ensures that everyone is treated fairly and has the opportunity to present their case before a neutral decision-maker. This principle is fundamental to the legal system and aims to prevent arbitrary or unjust actions by the government or other authorities. It guarantees that individuals have the right to notice, a fair hearing, and the opportunity to defend themselves. Due process is a cornerstone of democratic societies and helps safeguard individual liberties and prevent abuse of power.

The term "advance directive" refers to the various methods that allow a patient to exercise their right to self-determination before a medical necessity arises. It enables individuals to express their healthcare preferences in advance, ensuring that their wishes regarding treatment and care are respected even if they become unable to communicate or make decisions in the future. Advance directives can include documents such as living wills, healthcare proxies, and do-not-resuscitate orders. These directives provide guidance to healthcare providers and ensure that patients' autonomy and preferences are honored.

In loco parentis refers to a person appointed by a court to assume the role and responsibilities of a parent for a child. This legal term grants the individual the authority and obligations typically held by the child's parents. They are expected to make decisions in the best interest of the child and provide care and guidance as a parent would.

Embezzlement refers to the illegal act of misappropriating or stealing someone else's property, usually funds or assets, that have been entrusted to the perpetrator. Unlike larceny, which involves the unlawful taking of someone else's property without permission, embezzlement occurs when a person who has been entrusted with someone else's property intentionally and fraudulently uses or converts it for personal gain. Grand larceny and petty theft are also forms of property theft, but they do not specifically involve the misappropriation of entrusted property like embezzlement does.

Criminal laws are rules that are supposed to protect the public by defining and prohibiting behavior that is considered harmful or dangerous to society. These laws are enforced by the government and violations can result in penalties such as fines, probation, or imprisonment. Criminal laws cover a wide range of offenses, including theft, assault, murder, and drug trafficking, with the aim of maintaining public safety and order.

A guardian ad litem is an adult who represents and acts on behalf of a child in legal proceedings. They are appointed by the court to protect the best interests of the child and ensure that their rights are upheld during litigation. This person is responsible for gathering information, conducting investigations, and making recommendations to the court regarding the child's welfare. The term "guardian ad litem" accurately describes this role and is the correct answer to the question.

Mercy killing is another term used to describe voluntary euthanasia. This refers to the act of intentionally ending someone's life, usually to alleviate their suffering or pain, with their consent. It is considered voluntary because the decision is made by the individual themselves or with their explicit consent. The term "mercy killing" emphasizes the compassionate motive behind the act, as it is done with the intention of providing relief and mercy to the individual.

The minimum necessary standard refers to the requirement for healthcare providers to limit the disclosure of patient information to only the minimum amount necessary to fulfill the purpose of the request. This means that healthcare professionals must make a reasonable effort to avoid sharing more patient information than is required for a specific task or situation. This standard helps protect patient privacy and ensures that healthcare providers handle patient information responsibly and securely.

A summary judgment is a decision made by a court when there is no need for a trial. This means that the court has determined that there are no disputed facts and that one party is entitled to judgment as a matter of law. In other words, the court can make a decision based on the evidence and legal arguments presented without the need for a full trial. This can save time and resources in cases where the outcome is clear and there is no genuine dispute.

Nonfeasance is the correct answer because it refers to the failure to perform an action when it is necessary. Misfeasance refers to the improper performance of an action, malfeasance refers to the intentional wrongdoing or illegal act, and feasance simply refers to the performance of an action.

Res judicata is a legal principle that refers to a matter that has already been decided by a court and cannot be re-litigated. Once a court has made a final decision on a particular issue, it is considered "decided" and cannot be reopened or challenged again. This principle promotes finality and certainty in legal proceedings, preventing parties from continuously litigating the same issue. Therefore, "decided" is the correct answer as it accurately reflects the meaning of res judicata.

A gatekeeper is a person or entity that controls access to something. In this context, the gatekeeper approves all nonemergent services, hospitalization, or tests before they are provided. This means that they have the authority to determine whether or not these services or tests are necessary or appropriate. The other options, guardian, preapproval administrator, and specialist, do not necessarily have the same role or authority in approving these services or tests.

Covered transactions refer to certain electronic operations of health care information that are mandated under HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act). These transactions include the exchange of health information between health care providers, health plans, and clearinghouses. The purpose of covered transactions is to ensure the secure and standardized electronic transmission of health care data, such as claims, eligibility inquiries, and payment information, while maintaining patient privacy and security.

Vital statistics refer to the major events or facts from a person's life, such as live births, deaths, marriages, and divorces. These statistics are collected and recorded by government agencies and are considered public records. They are used for various purposes, including demographic analysis, public health planning, and legal documentation.

To allege is to assert or declare without proof. An allegation is a claim or an accusation that someone has done something wrong or unlawful, typically made without presenting evidence to support it. The proof or evidence may or may not exist, but it has not yet been presented when the allegation is made.

Groups of identical matching cells that came from a single common cell are called clones. This term is used to describe the process of a single cell dividing and producing multiple identical copies. These clones can be used in various scientific and medical applications, such as studying genetic diseases, testing new drugs, or producing large quantities of specific cells for transplantation.

When the state privacy laws are stricter than the privacy standards established by HIPAA, it means that the state laws take precedence over the federal standards. This concept is known as preemption, where the state law supersedes or overrides the federal law. In this case, the state privacy laws have preempted the HIPAA privacy standards, allowing for stricter regulations at the state level.

Medical etiquette refers to the set of standards and guidelines that govern the professional behavior of healthcare professionals. These standards ensure that healthcare providers maintain a high level of professionalism in their interactions with patients, colleagues, and the broader healthcare community. Adhering to medical etiquette helps to establish trust, respect, and effective communication between healthcare providers and patients, ultimately enhancing the quality of care provided.

Consideration is something that holds worth or importance. It refers to the act of taking into account or giving attention to something. In this context, the word "value" aligns perfectly with the concept of consideration, as it signifies the worth or significance of something.

Preimplanting genetic diagnosis is the correct answer because it involves the genetic testing of embryos before they are implanted into the uterus. This testing is done to identify any genes that may cause untreatable or severe diseases in the future. It allows parents to make informed decisions about which embryos to implant and can help prevent the transmission of genetic disorders to future generations. Gene therapy, gene splicing, and amniocentesis are not specifically related to testing embryos for genetic diseases.

The EEOC (Equal Employment Opportunity Commission) is the federal agency responsible for monitoring and enforcing Title VII of the Civil Rights Act. Title VII prohibits employment discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, and national origin. The EEOC investigates complaints of discrimination, provides guidance to employers and employees, and takes legal action against those who violate the law. By monitoring Title VII, the EEOC ensures that employers comply with the law and individuals are protected from discrimination in the workplace.

A clearinghouse is a healthcare entity that plays a crucial role in the conversion of standard electronic transactions into HIPAA transactions. It acts as an intermediary, receiving electronic transactions from healthcare providers and then processing and transmitting them to the appropriate recipients, such as insurance companies or other healthcare entities. This ensures that the transactions are compliant with HIPAA regulations and allows for efficient and secure electronic communication within the healthcare industry.

Malfeasance refers to the improper performance of an otherwise proper or lawful act. It involves the intentional wrongdoing or misconduct by a person in a position of authority or responsibility, such as a public official or corporate executive. This term is used to describe actions that are illegal, unethical, or in violation of the individual's duty or obligations. It implies that the act was deliberate and intentional, rather than accidental or unintentional.

JCAHO stands for the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations. This agency is responsible for setting and enforcing standards for hospitals and other healthcare organizations to ensure quality and safety. They conduct regular inspections and evaluations to assess compliance with these standards, and accreditation by JCAHO is seen as a mark of excellence in healthcare.

The correct answer is state because the uniform Anatomical Gift Act is a state statute that allows individuals who are 18 years old and of sound mind to donate their body parts to others or for research purposes. This act is not a federal, constitutional, or administrative statute, as it pertains specifically to state laws regarding anatomical gifts.

Damages refer to any injury caused by the defendant, which may include physical, emotional, or financial harm. In legal terms, damages are a form of compensation that is awarded to the plaintiff as a result of the defendant's actions. It is a monetary amount that is meant to help restore the plaintiff to the position they were in before the injury occurred. Damages can cover medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related costs.