Florida State Paramedic Practice Exam

What must a medic obtain in a situation with a minor without parental consent?

1. Emergency medical services report

2. Implied consent

3. Written consent from guardians

4. A court order

The correct answer is: Implied consent

In emergency situations involving a minor, a paramedic may rely on implied consent when parental consent cannot be obtained promptly. Implied consent applies in circumstances where the minor requires immediate medical treatment, and delay could pose a risk to the minor's health or life. This legal principle allows healthcare providers to act in the best interest of the patient when they cannot obtain explicit consent, such as when a minor is unconscious or unable to make decisions due to their medical condition. Under this doctrine, if a reasonable person would conclude that the minor needs emergency care and the parent or guardian is not available to give consent, the medic can proceed with treatment under the assumption that the parent would permit it if they were present. This approach ultimately prioritizes the minor's immediate healthcare needs while adhering to legal requirements surrounding patient consent. While other options may involve obtaining permission or further documentation, they are not feasible in urgent scenarios where time and the minor's wellbeing are critical considerations.