Is it acceptable to obtain consent over the telephone by a parent, legal guardian, or surrogate, when they are unable to come to the hospital?
Yes, but consent should only be obtained in this manner in emergency situations or when it is determined by a physician that the delay in treating the patient, while waiting for the arrival of the parent, legal guardian, or surrogate, would cause greater harm to the patient. The physician should disclose the same information as under normal circumstances. The substance of the telephone conversation and the name and telephone number of the person giving the consent must be documented in the medical record. Also, the telephone conversation should be witnessed by another professional staff member who should countersign the note in the medical record.
