"Infant Abandonment: Two Pathways and what EMS Personnel Need To Know" examines the clinical, legal, operational, and emotional challenges associated with infant abandonment and safe surrender events. Using two real-world case studies representing very different circumstances, the course explores responder responsibilities under varying state Safe Haven laws, including scene management, documentation, interagency coordination, and mandatory reporting obligations. Participants will review best practices for receiving and caring for surrendered infants, recognizing situations that fall outside Safe Haven protections, and interacting appropriately with law enforcement and child welfare agencies. The session also addresses the psychological impact of these incidents on responders and highlights strategies for critical incident stress management and professional self-care following high-stress pediatric calls.

Explain the purpose and key legal principles of Safe Haven laws and how they apply to EMS and Fire responders

Identify appropriate operational actions and documentation requirements when an infant is surrendered or abandoned

Differentiate between Safe Haven surrender and criminal child abandonment based on scene findings and clinical indicators

Recognize the emotional impact of infant abandonment incidents and apply appropriate critical incident stress management strategies.