You arrive on scene to a MVA where an injured patient is refusing care and transport. You suspect they might have a head injury. What do you do?

In this scenario where a patient involved in a motor vehicle accident (MVA) is refusing care and transport, the most appropriate action in the case of a suspected head injury is to consider the principle of implied consent. Implied consent applies in emergency situations where a patient is unable to make an informed decision due to their condition, often seen in cases of altered mental status, severe injury, or unconsciousness.

Since the patient might have a head injury, their cognitive function may be impaired, preventing them from fully understanding the risks associated with their refusal. In such situations, emergency medical responders are allowed to act in the best interest of the patient, which typically means initiating treatment and transporting them to a medical facility for proper evaluation and care, based on the assumption that they would consent to treatment if they were able to do so.

While attempting to convince the patient to accept help is certainly a reasonable approach, it does not guarantee that they will ultimately agree to transport. Similarly, relying on a family member for consent might not be permissible if the patient is alert and able to make their own decision, but since their condition raises concern, implied consent takes precedence to protect the patient’s well-being.

Thus, when faced with the risk of a serious condition like a head