If a patient expires during transport, which option is NOT viable for the EMS personnel?

When a patient passes away during transport, it's important for EMS personnel to follow legal and procedural protocols. Continuing to the closest emergency department without notifying law enforcement is not a viable option because it can lead to significant legal implications.

In cases of unexpected death, especially where there could be potential investigations into the cause, it is mandatory to notify local law enforcement. They play a crucial role in investigating the circumstances surrounding a death, which can include understanding whether any foul play or unusual circumstances were involved. Failing to do so by transporting directly to a hospital could compromise the integrity of the scene and violate legal protocols.

In contrast, returning to the point of departure, transporting to a pre-arranged destination, and notifying law enforcement while maintaining the decedent during the transport are actions that comply with standard practices for handling such sensitive situations. These actions ensure that the situation is managed appropriately and that any necessary investigations can be conducted in accordance with the law.