A process in which a healthcare provider educates a patient about the nature, risks, benefits, and alternatives of a proposed medical intervention or treatment, allowing the patient to make a voluntary and informed decision about their healthcare.
Refers to a patient’s ability to understand the information provided to them, weigh the risks and benefits, and make a rational decision. Capacity assessment ensures that patients are capable of providing informed consent.
Similar to capacity, competence refers to a patient’s ability to make decisions about their healthcare. It is assessed by healthcare providers to ensure that patients have the cognitive and emotional capacity to understand and consent to medical treatment.
The principle that informed consent must be given freely without coercion or undue influence from healthcare providers or other parties. Patients should feel empowered to accept or decline medical interventions based on their preferences and values.
The process of providing patients with relevant information about their diagnosis, prognosis, treatment options, risks, benefits, and alternatives clearly and understandably. Full disclosure enables patients to make informed decisions about their healthcare.
The extent to which patients understand the information provided to them during the informed consent process. Healthcare providers should ensure that patients have sufficient comprehension of the relevant information before obtaining consent.
The ability of patients to understand relevant information, appreciate the consequences of their decisions, and communicate their choices regarding medical treatment. Decision-making capacity is essential for providing valid informed consent.
When patients lack decision-making capacity due to illness, disability, or other factors, proxy consent allows designated individuals, such as family members or legal guardians, to make healthcare decisions on their behalf. Proxy decision-makers should act in the best interest of the patient.
The recording of the informed consent process in the patient’s medical record, including details of the information provided, discussions held, decisions made, and signatures of both the patient (or proxy) and healthcare provider. Documentation ensures accountability and legal validity.
The right of patients to revoke their consent for medical treatment at any time, even after initially agreeing to it. Healthcare providers should respect patients’ autonomy and provide alternative options if a patient chooses to withdraw consent.