Consent

Question 1

Outline

Answer 1

most people + cultures involve a certain amount of respect for a person’s personal space. Touching another person is generally considered to be rude, offensive or threatening unless their permission is gained

Question 2

Outline

Answer 2

Most first aid trt involves touching the casualty, so very important to gain permission to avoid offence or distress. In most jurisdictions, it may be considered battery if a first aider touches the casualty without permission

Question 3

Gaining consent

Answer 3

ask the casualty if they will allow you to treat them - talk to them and build rapport with them. During this convo, it is important to identify the key points:

Question 4

who you are:

Answer 4

your name, explain you are a trained first aider

Question 5

why you are with them:

Answer 5

they are likely to know they have an injury or illness, (although you cannot always assume this) but explain to them that you would like to help with their injury or illness

Question 6

Explain what you are going to do:

Answer 6

some first aid procedures can be uncomfortable (e.g sting) so important to be honest about what you are doing + if necessary why it is important.

Question 7

Implied consent

Answer 7

there are some cases where you can assume that the casualty gives their consent for trt.
1. a patient is unconscious
2. has a very reduced level of consciousness
in these cases, you can perform any reasonable trt within your level of training

Question 8

Judgement of consent

Answer 8

The first aider may have to exercise a level of judgement in treating a casualty who may initially refuse:

1. intoxicated
2. irrational (delusional, insane or confused due to injuries)
3. a minor (parent or guardian must give consent if present of able, otherwise consent is implied)
4. suffering from learning difficulties

Question 9

In these judgement cases,

Answer 9

the first aider must make a decision even is casualty refusing trt. make a note of the decision, why it was taken + why it was believed the person was unfit to refuse trt. it is advisable to summon professional medical assistance if you believe the casualty should be treated + is refusing, as professionals are experienced in dealing with reluctant people.