What it means
A law that encourages bystanders, including off-duty nurses, to help in an emergency, such as at a car crash or in a store. It protects a helper who acts in good faith, without pay, and within their training. It does not protect gross negligence or care beyond what the person is trained to do. Details differ from state to state and country to country.
For the nurse
Off duty, give only the care your training covers, stay until someone equally or more qualified takes over, and do not accept payment. Leaving once you have started can count as abandonment.
At a glance
| Also written | Good Samaritan laws, Good Samaritan act |
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Related terms
cardiopulmonary resuscitation
Emergency chest compressions, with or without rescue breaths, to keep blood flowing when the heart has stopped.
registered nurse
A nurse who has passed the NCLEX-RN and holds a state license to practice as an RN.