A family is involved in an automobile accident. The father, who is unconscious, and his 14-year-old son, who has suffered life-threatening injuries, are transported by ambulance to the hospital. The hospital staff attempt to contact the mother; however, they learn from the housekeeper that the mother is out of the country and not reachable by phone. Which of the following actions would be most reasonable and prudent on the part of the hospital staff?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In emergency situations where a patient's life is at risk and informed consent from a legal guardian cannot be immediately obtained, medical professionals are ethically and legally permitted to provide necessary life-saving treatments under the doctrine of implied consent. This is especially true for minors when a parent or legal guardian is not available to give consent.

A Family Is Involved in an Automobile Accident