The pediatric nurse knows that the children she is treating are considered minors. Which statement accurately describes the regulations related to consent for medical treatment?
A) Children older than age 16 can provide their own consent for, or refusal of, medical procedures.
B) A guardian ad litem may be appointed by the parents to serve to protect the child's best interests.
C) Parents ultimately are the decision makers regarding medical treatment for their children younger than the age of 18.
D) When divorce occurs, the parent with whom the child is living on a daily basis will be granted custody of the child.
Ans: C
Parents ultimately are the decision makers for their children. Generally, only persons over the age of majority (18 years of age) can legally provide consent for health care. Minors (children younger than 18 years of age) generally require adult guardians to act on their behalf. Biological or adoptive parents are usually considered to be the child's legal guardian. When divorce occurs, one or both parents may be granted custody of the child. In certain cases (such as child abuse or neglect, or during foster care), a guardian ad litem may be appointed by the courts. This person generally serves to protect the child's best interests.
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