What is the role of EMS personnel in the Chicago EMS System regarding relinquished infants?

• A. They provide assessment, treatment, and transportation to the closest EDAP hospital.
• B. They must notify police only.
• C. They should keep the infant with them until mother returns.
• D. They should proceed to the nearest children's hospital regardless.

Answer: (A)

In relinquished-infant situations, the priority is immediate medical assessment and safe handoff to a facility designated to handle relinquishments. EMS personnel should perform a quick but thorough evaluation, provide any necessary stabilization within their scope (such as keeping the infant warm and ensuring a clear airway), and transport the infant to the closest EDAP hospital. EDAP, or Emergency Department Approved for Pediatrics, are designated facilities equipped to receive relinquished infants and connect them with pediatric medical care and social services. This ensures the infant receives prompt medical attention and the appropriate support services are engaged on arrival.

Choosing to limit actions to notifying police would delay medical care and handoff. Keeping the infant with the mother would not align with relinquishment procedures and could compromise safety. Heading to the nearest children’s hospital without EDAP designation might bypass the specialized pediatric and social-services pathways established for relinquishments.