Patient Information And Consent Form – Everyone should have the ability to make educated decisions about their health. Treatments for medical conditions can be sensitive, so patients must be able to decide the risks that are known to be present as well as their own personal preferences, how they will be treated. In order to ensure that medical professionals can provide treatment to patients they must obtain the process of informed consent.
A patient’s informed consent can be a legally binding requirement in which patients are provided with a full and complete description of the condition of their body as well as the treatment that is recommended by the doctor in charge. After receiving this information the patient is required to sign a consent form with the doctor to treat prior to any form of care can be given. Without informed consent from the patient health care professional cannot offer treatment.
Decision Making Capacity
In certain situations, patients do not possess the knowledge to fully comprehend the options for treatment and the benefits and risks associated with each. In other circumstances patients might not be able to communicate their choices to health care professionals. If this happens patients are said to not possess adequate capacity to make decisions. Family members or a court-appointed representative will then be permitted to give informed consent in lieu of the patient.
Patients who are heavily influenced by their emotions – such as anxiety or fear for instance can be deemed to not possessing decision making capacity. The ones who are asleep clearly cannot make decisions on their independent of themselves, so outsiders are required to obtain consent instead.
Items in an Patient Information And Consent Form
There are certain elements that are included on all informed consent forms:
The patient’s medical condition or diagnosis
The treatment that is recommended by the acting physician
The risks and the benefits associated with this procedure
Alternative treatments that are available, along with their benefits and risks
The dangers and advantages with refusing treatment whatsoever
Not only must these items be documented However, they should also have a discussion with the patient. This way, he can be fully aware of the details of the situation and get straight answers to any questions that be arising.