Evaluation and Treatment of Minors

Reaffirmed January 2021

Revised October 2015 

Reaffirmed October 2007

Revised February 2001  

Reaffirmed January 1996

Originally approved October 1991

As an adjunct to this policy statement, ACEP has prepared a policy resource and education paper (PREP) titled "Evaluation and Treatment of Minors"

The medical screening,examination and treatment of an emergency medical condition of a minor in the emergency department should not be delayed because of consent issues. When clinically, legally, and ethically appropriate, adolescents independently treated in the emergency department should have their confidentiality honored.