Which of the following situations is an example of abandonment?

Abandonment in the context of emergency medical services refers to a scenario where a healthcare provider leaves a patient without ensuring that the patient has been adequately transferred to another qualified provider who can continue necessary care. In option B, when a paramedic transfers care to an advanced EMT, it is essential that the transfer process is managed properly, ensuring that the advanced EMT is capable of providing the required level of care before the paramedic leaves the scene. If the paramedic fails to confirm that the advanced EMT is prepared to take over care, this situation could constitute abandonment, as the patient is left without appropriate supervision or care.

In contrast, the other choices represent acceptable transfer of care scenarios. For instance, when an EMT transfers care of a patient to a paramedic, proper protocols are followed to ensure continuity of care. Similarly, an EMT departing the scene after a paramedic arrives indicates that the EMT has ensured a proper transfer has taken place, and providing a verbal report to an emergency nurse reflects communication and collaboration to maintain the patient's care. Thus, the distinction in option B highlights the importance of ensuring a legitimate transfer in emergency situations to prevent abandonment.