If I Die Before I Wake

If I Die Before I Wake

From Standard of Care Podcast by Long Pause Media | FlightBridgeED

March 25, 2025 · 48 min · Season 4 · Episode 5

About this episode

The episode discusses a case where EMS declared a patient deceased, only for him to be resuscitated later, leading to legal implications and ethical considerations.

What happens when a determination of death GOES WRONG? In this episode of the Standard of Care Podcast, hosts Samantha Johnson and Nick Adams break down a real and heartbreaking case where EMS medics declared a 14-year-old patient deceased—only for him to be resuscitated at the hospital nearly an hour later. The fallout? A legal battle that made its way to the Supreme Court, and a patient left with devastating consequences. With legal nuance and clinical insight, Samantha and Nick walk through the case from street to courtroom. They explore the intersection of qualified immunity, the complexities of assessing patients with conditions like cerebral palsy, and the chilling legal and ethical risks that come with the determination of death in the field. This episode will change the way you view determination of death—and might just save your career someday. Listen now on your favorite podcast platform or directly at https://flightbridgeed.com/standard-of-care/ . While you’re there, explore our award-winning and nationally recognized courses that are helping thousands of providers stay sharp, safe, and legally sound. Key Takeaways Don’t shortcut your assessment. "Cold to the touch"…

People in this episode

Hosts: Samantha Johnson, Nick Adams

Topics covered

  • determination of death
  • legal battles
  • EMS medics
  • patient assessment
  • qualified immunity
  • ethical risks

Keywords

  • death determination
  • EMS
  • resuscitation
  • legal implications
  • patient assessment
  • cerebral palsy
  • qualified immunity

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Supreme Court, FlightBridgeED, Standard of Care Podcast

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