The commissioner or his designated agent shall make diligent efforts to maintain contact with the parent or guardian of each person with a developmental disability who is receiving functional services and, in the case of those receiving residential services, to advise the parent or guardian promptly of any significant changes in the condition of the person. He shall make all reasonable efforts to consult with the parent or guardian concerning recommended changes in the program, care, training, rehabilitation or treatment being rendered to any person with a developmental disability by the department, and to secure the prior consent of the parent or guardian to such changes; provided, however, that, in the absence of an expressed prohibition of such action by the parent or guardian, the commissioner or his designated agent shall be free from liability for the consequences of any prudent action taken by them in the interest of the immediate health or safety of the person when an emergency affecting such person may arise.
N.J.S. § 30:4-25.8