True or False: Before providing BLS care to a child or infant, you must always obtain consent from a parent or legal guardian if present.

Obtaining consent before providing Basic Life Support (BLS) care is an essential step when it is possible to do so. In cases where a parent or legal guardian is present and able to give consent, it is crucial to follow this protocol to respect the rights of the child and their guardian. This principle is based on the ethical obligation of healthcare providers to seek permission before administering medical care, ensuring that caregivers are informed and can participate in the decision-making process regarding their child’s health.

In certain emergency situations, it may be implied consent if the guardian is not present and the child requires immediate assistance to prevent serious harm or death. However, when a parent or legal guardian is available, the responsible approach is to obtain their consent, as this supports both legal and ethical standards in healthcare. This means that in instances where consent can be secured, it should always be prioritized.