Ireland's Assisted Decision Making Capacity Act-the potential for unintended effects in critical emergencies: a cross-sectional study of Advanced Paramedic decision making.

Irish legislation which changes the traditional basis of medical practice away from the best interests of the patient may affect the resuscitation practices of Advanced Paramedics in life-threatening situations. It has significant implications for medical education, professional practice and clinician-patient interactions. This legislation and similar planned legislation may have implications for other EU jurisdictions.