New York State Basic Emergency Medical Technician (EMT-B) Practice Exam

Who must provide consent for a minor patient receiving medical treatment?

1. The minor themselves

2. A social worker

3. A parent or legal guardian

4. The healthcare professional

The correct answer is: A parent or legal guardian

In the case of medical treatment for a minor, it is essential to obtain consent from a parent or legal guardian. This is because minors are typically not legally considered capable of providing informed consent for their medical care due to their age and level of maturity. The law recognizes that parents or guardians have the responsibility to make health care decisions on behalf of their children, as they are best positioned to consider the child's welfare and understand the implications of medical interventions. A parent or legal guardian is expected to provide consent for non-emergency medical procedures, ensuring that the minor receives appropriate care while protecting the rights and well-being of the child. There are exceptions, such as in cases of certain emergencies or specific legal provisions (like mature minor laws) where a minor may be allowed to consent to their own treatment, but these situations are not the norm and vary by state. The involvement of healthcare professionals in obtaining consent is limited to ensuring that the legal requirements are met, but the authority ultimately lies with the parent or guardian.