Doe Consent Form – Every person should be able to make educated decisions about their medical care. Medical treatments can be sensitive, so patients must be able decide the risks that are known to be present and the way their bodies will be treated. Thus, before medical professionals are allowed to provide treatment to patients they must obtain the process of informed consent.
A patient’s informed consent can be a legally binding requirement where a patient is provided with specific information regarding his or her physical health as well as the treatment that is recommended by the treating physician. After receiving this information patients must offer the physician consent to treat before any form of treatment can be given. Without the patient’s informed consent an health care professional is not permitted to offer treatments.
Decision Making Capacity
In certain instances, patients do not possess the capabilities to fully understand their treatment options , as well as the risks/benefits associated with each one. In other instances, patients may not be able to effectively communicate their decision to health workers. In such situations patients are said not to possess the proper decision making capacity. The family member, or court appointed representative in this case, can give informed consent in lieu of the patient.
Patients who are heavily influenced by their emotions – anxiety or fear for instance are deemed not having the capacity for decision-making. Patients who are in the state of unconscious cannot make decisions on their alone, and external parties are required to obtain consent instead.
Items in an Doe Consent Form
Certain elements are universally included in informed consent forms:
The patient’s medical condition or diagnosis
The recommended treatment is suggested by the acting physician
The risks and advantages associated with this method of treatment
There are alternative treatments offered, as are their potential risks and benefits
The benefits and risks associated with refusing any treatment whatsoever
Not only should these details be documented in a written document But they also need to been discussed by the patient. So, he will be able to comprehend all the details of the scenario and receive direct responses to any questions that arise.