Constitution Basics
What document is the fundamental law of the land and the basis for every law passed after it?
The Constitution
What do amendments help protect and change?
People's Rights and Rules.
What are the main sections of the Constitution that explain how different parts of government work?
The Articles
What does the 4th Amendment protect citizens against?
Unreasonable searches and seizures.
What two major protections does the 14th Amendment guarantee?
Equal protection and due process.
What are the 3 main parts of the Constitution?
The Preamble
The 7 Articles
The Amendments
Which Amendment protects freedom of speech?
The 1st Amendment
How many Articles are in the Constitution?
7
What generally must government officials have to enter private property under the 4th Amendment?
A warrant or probable cause.
How should public EMS agencies treat patients?
They should provide the same emergency care standard regardless of race, age, income, or background.
What part of the Constitution details its intentions?
The Preamble
Which Amendment protects people from unreasonable searches and seizures?
The 4th Amendment
What do the Articles explain about the three branches of government?
They explain the roles of the three branches of government.
When can EMS responders enter a home without a warrant?
When there is an immediate, reasonable threat to life.
What does due process protect when it comes to a competent adult’s medical treatment?
Their liberty and legal right to control their own medical treatment.
How many Articles are there in the Constitution?
7 Articles
Which Amendment guarantees equal protection and due process?
The 14th Amendment
What does Article 1, Section 10 do?
It explains things that states are not allowed to do and puts limits on state powers.
During an EMS call, what is the purpose of entering a home?
To provide medical care, not to search drawers or cabinets or investigate crimes.
What must EMS personnel do when a competent patient refuses care?
Explain the risks and respect the patient’s choice to refuse care.
How many amendments are there in the Constitution, and how many make up the Bill of Rights?
27 Amendments, with the first 10 being the Bill of Rights.
Why is it important to know the Amendments in criminal justice?
They help people know their rights and what police, lawyers, and the government can and cannot do.
What does Article 1, Section 10, Clause 3 relate to in EMS?
The EMS Compact, which allows licensed EMTs and paramedics to practice in 25 states without needing a new license.
What can happen if EMS sees illegal items in plain sight while providing care?
The illegal items can be reported, but alert, competent adults can legally refuse entry or treatment.
In Goodrich v. City of Marion, what happened after EMT Austin Ray determined Goodrich’s injuries were not compatible with life?
Life-saving care was not started and the coroner was called, but when the coroner arrived, Goodrich was still breathing and could not be declared deceased. He was later taken to the hospital.