Consent

Question 1

Under 16

Answer 1

People under 16 years of age are not automatically prohibited
from consenting to medical, surgical or dental procedures so judgement of the patient’s competence to make an informed
choice and give informed consent is needed in each instance.
The Act states that a female of any age has the right to
consent or refuse to give consent to any medical or surgical procedure for the purpose of terminating her pregnancy.
You should assess a child’s competency and form an opinion on whether he or she is able to give informed consent.
Generally, a competent child is one who is able to understand the nature, purpose and possible consequences of the
proposed investigation or treatment, as well as the consequences of non-treatment14.

Question 2

Over 18

Answer 2

Second opinion from colleague

legal guardian, parent or EPOA