25-5-130. Consent and notice required before major surgery; exceptions.
(a) Except as provided in subsection (b) of this section, no client shall undergo major surgery until the superintendent:
(i) Obtains the prior consent of the client, or if his consent cannot be given knowingly, he shall obtain the prior consent of the resident's parent or guardian; and
(ii) Notifies the parent or guardian of the nature, date and place of the surgery and the name of the surgeon. A copy of the notice shall be placed in the patient's records.
(b) Prior consent need not be obtained nor prior notice given when the parent or guardian cannot be located or when an emergency requires immediate surgery to prevent serious consequences or death. The parent or guardian shall be notified as soon as possible after emergency surgery.