What should an officer do if the subject presents a medical issue during the SFST?

When a subject presents a medical issue during the Standardized Field Sobriety Test (SFST), the officer's response should be measured and considerate of the subject's health. Evaluating the situation carefully allows the officer to assess whether the medical issue is significant enough to warrant discontinuing the test. This is important because administering sobriety tests must not compromise the individual's safety or well-being.

If the issue appears serious or could impact the subject's ability to perform the test reliably, terminating the test is the appropriate action. This ensures that the officer is acting responsibly and ethically, prioritizing the individual's health while also preserving the integrity of the testing process. It's essential for officers to be trained in recognizing medical conditions that may resemble impairment, enabling them to make informed decisions.

By considering the individual's medical status, the officer can also avoid potential liability issues arising from proceeding with tests when it's unsafe to do so. Therefore, careful evaluation and potential termination of the test, if warranted, reflects sound judgment and adherence to protocol.