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In which of the following situations does a legal duty to act clearly exist?

  1. A call is received 15 minutes prior to shift change

  2. A bystander encounters a victim who is not breathing

  3. The EMT hears of a cardiac arrest after his or her shift ends

  4. The EMT witnesses a vehicle crash while off duty

The correct answer is: A call is received 15 minutes prior to shift change

In this scenario, the situation where a legal duty to act clearly exists is when a call is received 15 minutes prior to shift change (Option A). When an EMT is on duty and actively engaged in work-related responsibilities, they are legally obligated to respond to emergency calls and provide necessary assistance. Despite the impending shift change, the EMT is still considered on duty until the end of their scheduled shift. Therefore, being aware of an emergency situation during this time creates a legal duty to act and provide help. In contrast, the other options do not inherently establish a legal duty to act. In option B, although encountering a victim who is not breathing requires immediate assistance, there may not be a legal obligation if the person is not an EMT or otherwise on duty. Option C mentions hearing about a cardiac arrest after the EMT's shift ends, which does not impose a duty to act since the EMT is no longer on duty. Option D involves witnessing a vehicle crash while off duty, which may not create a legal duty to act unless the individual voluntarily decides to assist.