Informed consent

Before any medical procedure is carried out, you must ask a patient for their consent. You must provide them with information about the procedure, its effects, likely success, risks, benefits and alternatives. This is called ‘informed consent. If you the patient does not understand any aspect of their treatment, ensure they ask questions until you are satisfied that they do understand all aspects of treatment.

Details about informed consent

• In most instances, medical treatment cannot be given unless the patient has given their consent.
• There are some circumstances where medical care can be given without consent (for example, an emergency).
• In non-urgent situations where they are unable to make their own decisions, consent will, when practical, be sought from their next-of-kin or enduring guardian.
• While the patient is able to make their own decisions, they have the right to choose from the treatments offered.
• The patient can change their mind and withdraw their consent at any time.