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TREATMENT OF MINORS
Clinical Indications
• For this protocol, all patients under the age of 18 years are considered minors
• Treatment of a minor patient with/without a parent or legal guardian present
Remarks
• Medical aircrews and medical directors should consult medical rules of eligibility and
applicable laws accordingly.
Patient Management Procedure
1. Treatment and transport of any minor requiring immediate care to save a life or prevent severe
injury will be performed following the principle of implied consent for emergency care.
(Assume any minor who needs treatment to save life, limb, eyesight, or to prevent severe injury
has provided consent to treatment.)
2. ALWAYS act in the patient’s best interest. ALWAYS maintain complete and careful
documentation.
3. If the parent or guardian is present:
a. Allow one (1) parent/guardian to accompany the child during transport after approval of the
pilot in command (PC) and if it does not interfere with patient care or flight safety.
b. In the event of major trauma and/or cardiac arrest, exercise judgment in allowing the parent/
guardian to accompany the child. Recent evidence supports this practice in emergency
departments and some EMS settings. Exercise care to maintain crew safety and mission
accomplishment.
c. Allow the parent/guardian to hold or touch the child, if possible, while ensuring optimal
transport restraints of the patient and parent/guardian.
d. Remember to be open and honest with the parent/guardian and the child about the child’s
condition and any treatment given. DO NOT diagnose, DO NOT deceive, and
DO try to comfort the child and parent/guardian.
4. In many jurisdictions, parents or legal guardians CANNOT refuse consent for treatment/
transport of a minor with a life-threatening condition. Contact your medical director in
the event the parent/guardian refuses treatment/transport of a minor with a life-threatening
condition.

70 • SPECIAL POPULATIONS