What Does Informed Consent Mean?

Informed consent is a fundamental principle in healthcare that originates from the patient's right to direct what happens to their body. It is a process that involves clear, honest, and comprehensive communication between healthcare providers and patients about the benefits, risks, and alternatives of a proposed medical intervention. 

This communication allows patients to:

• Make informed and voluntary decisions about their health care 

• Decisions are based on their values, beliefs, and personal health goals

The process of obtaining informed consent involves three key components

Disclosure refers to the healthcare provider's responsibility to provide all the necessary information about the proposed medical intervention.  

This includes:

• The nature of the procedure 

• Its purpose 

• Potential benefits 

• Risks 

• Side effects 

• Complications

•  Alternatives to the proposed intervention 

Capacity refers to the patient's ability to:  

• Understand the information provided 

• Appreciate the medical situation and its consequences 

• Make a reasoned decision based on this understanding 

Voluntariness refers to:

• The patient's right to make a decision freely, without coercion, manipulation, or undue influence 

• The decision should be the patient's own, based on their values, beliefs, and personal health goals

Informed consent:  

• Is a legal requirement in many jurisdictions 

• Aimed at protecting patients from unauthorized medical interventions and potential harm 

• Promotes patient autonomy 

•  Respects individual rights 

• Fosters trust in the patient-provider relationship