Background Consent Form Template – Everyone should be able to make informed choices about their medical care. Medical treatments can be injurious, and patients must be able to determine in light of known risks that their bodies should be treated. In order to ensure that medical professionals can treat patients, they must receive what is known as informed consent.
The informed consent requirement is legal requirement under which a patient has been provided with detailed information about the condition of their body and the recommended treatment by the doctor in charge. After receiving this information the patient must provide the physician with consent to treat before any form or treatment can be offered. Without informed consent from the patient, a health care provider is not permitted to offer treatment.
Decision Making Capacity
In certain situations patients lack the capabilities to fully understand their treatment options , as well as the risks and benefits that come with each. In some instances patients might not be able to explain their decisions to health professionals. If this happens the patient is said to lack the appropriate capacity to make decisions. The family member, or court-appointed representative, could then be able to give informed consent in lieu of the patient.
Patients who are strongly affected by their emotions – anxiety or fear, as an example could be classified as not having the capacity for decision-making. The ones who are asleep clearly can’t make decisions on own, and outside parties are required to obtain consent instead.
Items in an Background Consent Form Template
Certain elements are included on all informed consent forms:
The patient’s medical condition/diagnosis
The recommended treatment is suggested by the doctor in charge
The risks and benefits associated with this procedure
There are alternative treatments available, along with their benefits and risks
The dangers and advantages of refusing treatment whatsoever
Not only must these items be documented, but they must also be discussed with the patient. This way, he or is able to fully comprehend the specifics of the situation and receive direct responses to any concerns that might arise.