If signs of abuse or neglect are present in a relinquished infant, which policy should EMS personnel follow?

• A. Safe Haven Information Packet.
• B. Region 11 Field to Hospital Communication Policy.
• C. Reporting Abused and/or Neglected Patients Policy.
• D. OLMC policy.

Answer: (C)

When an infant is relinquished and you observe signs of abuse or neglect, you must follow a policy built for reporting abused and/or neglected patients. This ensures the child’s safety and compliance with mandatory reporting requirements. In practical terms, you assess and document any injuries or neglect signals, immediately involve your supervisor, and contact the appropriate authorities (such as child protective services and, if needed, law enforcement). You then follow the reporting procedure, provide clear documentation, and arrange transport to a suitable facility with proper handoff to hospital staff. The Safe Haven Information Packet is meant for safe relinquishment when there’s no abuse suspected, a Region 11 Field to Hospital Communication Policy covers how field and hospital teams communicate in general, and OLMC policy governs medical control and orders—none of these specifically addresses reporting abuse or neglect.