When treating an unresponsive patient found at a shopping mall, what principle allows you to begin treatment?

In the scenario of treating an unresponsive patient, the principle of implied consent is applicable. This principle acknowledges that when a person is unable to provide explicit consent due to their unresponsive state, it is presumed that they would consent to necessary medical treatment if they were capable of doing so. The rationale behind this principle is rooted in the assumption that individuals generally wish to receive life-saving interventions in emergencies, especially if they cannot communicate their wishes.

In a public setting like a shopping mall, where immediate medical assistance is crucial and time-sensitive, implied consent allows healthcare providers to initiate treatment without explicit permission from the patient. This facilitates swift action that can be vital in preventing further harm or deterioration of the patient's condition. Hence, when faced with an unresponsive individual, medical professionals can proceed with care under the understanding that it is in the patient’s best interest.