Discussion Case: Dr. Williams has just telephoned Carl, her office nurse, explaining that she is behind schedule doing rounds at one of the hospitals. She has asked Carl to do her a favor and interpret Mrs. Harris's EKG, sign her name, and fax the report to Mrs. Harris's internist, who is expecting the results. Carl learned to take and read EKGs while he was in nursing school. Dr. Williams' EKG machine includes new technology that interprets EKGs. Carl will not have any difficulty carrying out Dr. Williams' request.
1. Given the scope of Carl's education and training, would this favor fall within his scope of practice?
2. Would any portion of Dr. Williams' request fall within the scope of practice for Carl?
3. Does Dr. Williams ' request violate the physician-patient relationship? Why or why not?
4. What, if anything, should Carl say to Dr. Williams?