Abandoned Newborn
From Standard Operating Guidelines
Contents
Section 2 - EMERGENCY OPERATIONS
220.15 Abandoned Newborn
PURPOSE:
This SOG establishes guidelines for managing the drop off or 911 dispatched call of abandoned infants who appear approximately less than 30 days old, in accordance with Florida Statute 383.50. Treatment of Abandoned Infant and Abandoned Neonate Protocol.
PROCEDURE:
- Maitland Fire Rescue personnel shall accept any infant who appears less than 30 days old and that is left with a Firefighter, EMT or Paramedic. Personnel shall consider this action implied consent.
- Maitland Fire Rescue personnel shall accept any infant who appears less than 30 days old from a parent who lawfully surrenders the infant via 911 Dispatch. According to the Law, the parent must stay with the infant until EMS Providers take custody. Personnel shall also consider this action implied consent.
- Crews shall notify OCFRD and MPD communications center and advise them of the abandoned infant, initiate a still alarm, and place the necessary equipment out of service.
- Station personnel should make an effort to obtain a medical history of both parents and the infant and a description of the parent(s). Personnel may use the questionnaire that is provided below if mother or father are willing and provide consent.
- Florida Statute 383.50 provides immunity from criminal or civil liability to any firefighter or emergency medical personnel who accepts or provides services to the infant.
- The infant will be transported to the most appropriate hospital.
- In the event of signs or symptoms of abuse, the abandoned infant statute does not apply, and EMS parameters will be followed. Station personnel are required to document suspected abuse in their EMS report, notify the Department of Children and Families, Law Enforcement, and the receiving facility of transport.
- An incident and EMS report shall be generated.
- Personnel shall contact the “Safe Haven for Newborns” – 1-877-767-2229
- Florida Statute 383.50 allows provisions for the infant to be eligible for Medicaid and reimbursement for services rendered can be sought under this provision.
