Despite the benefits, the serious consequences that can derive from the improper use of AI cannot be ignored. An example of dire consequences was seen in a recent Avianca Airlines lawsuit.

This Case of the Month emphasizes the importance of documenting conversations with patients regarding informed refusal. Beware: A good physician-patient relationship may not always save the day when adult children get involved

When it comes to timing of important events in a patient’s care, making the effort to note when those events occurred is well worth the minimal investment in time required.

A previously published “Case of the Month” featured a case involving Mr. Crane, a profoundly deaf individual who communicates using American Sign Language (ASL) and who filed a lawsuit against a hospital for failure to provide a sign language interpreter to effectively communicate during an involuntary commitment evaluation.

Communication with deaf or hearing-impaired patients requires additional considerations to ensure that effective communication is provided. When necessary, a qualified interpreter or interpretation service must be provided to the patient.