A 10-year-old child is in status epilepticus but her parents refuse treatment due to religious beliefs. What should the physician do?

In cases where a minor is in status epilepticus, immediate medical intervention is critical to prevent potential irreversible brain damage or other severe complications. The physician has a duty to act in the best interest of the child's health and well-being.

Treating the child despite the parents' refusal is justified because the urgent nature of status epilepticus can lead to significant morbidity and mortality. In emergency situations, when a child's life is at risk or when there is a potential for serious harm, the physician may prioritize the immediate needs of the child over the parents' wishes, especially when those wishes could lead to harm.

Additionally, legal frameworks often provide that in life-threatening situations, a physician may proceed with treatment without parental consent if it is necessary to save the child's life. Although consulting with medical ethics or seeking a court order can be appropriate in some cases, the time-sensitive nature of status epilepticus necessitates rapid action to protect the patient's health.

In summary, overriding parental refusal in this urgent scenario aligns with the ethical and legal responsibilities of the physician to ensure the child's health and safety.