Basic Life Support (BLS) Practice Exam

Is it true that consent must be obtained from a child's parent or legal guardian when performing CPR?

1. True

2. False

3. Only if the child is conscious

4. Only in emergency situations

The correct answer is: True

Obtaining consent from a child's parent or legal guardian is crucial when performing CPR because children are not legally able to give consent due to their age and developmental stage. Adult caregivers or guardians hold the legal responsibility for making health-related decisions on behalf of minors. In emergency situations where a child is unresponsive and unable to give consent, implied consent may be assumed—that is, the presumption that a reasonable guardian would consent to lifesaving measures in that situation. However, when there is the opportunity to obtain consent and to clarify the situation, it is important to do so to respect legal and ethical standards. In instances where the child is conscious, consent is particularly important to obtain directly from the guardian or through the child, depending on their ability to understand and communicate. Always remember that the emphasis in CPR is on saving lives; however, following the legal protocols regarding consent reinforces the ethical obligation to involve guardians or parents in decisions regarding their child's medical care.