Consent

Question 1

What is needed for valid consent

Answer 1

CAPACITY

INFORMATION

VOLUNTARINESS

underlying principle is autonomy

Question 2

Capacity and what act is it assessed by

Answer 2

MCA 2005

• must understand info
• must retain info
• use info to weigh up and make decision
• must be able to communicate decision

Capacity is decision specific and can fluctuate

Question 3

What information should be given to the patient ?

Answer 3

Would would the patient want to know? (Consider patients needs and wishes, knowledge of condition, nature of condition and complexity of treatment)

Diagnosis/prognosis

Risks/benefits

Alternative treatments

Question 4

Types of consent

Answer 4

Explicit - verbal or written

Implicit- implied e.g. rolling up sleep for blood test

Written consent is not proof of valid consent but is supporting evidence

Question 5

Types of coercion

Answer 5

Explicit
Implicit
Power differentials with patient & Dr
Pressure from family

• hinders voluntariness- consent not valid

Question 6

When are the different types of consent required?

Answer 6

Implied- BP measurement

Verbal - low risk procedures and treatments

Written - high risk interventions, significant consequences for patient employment, social or personal life, treatment part of research study, fertility treatment

Question 7

Name some obstacles to informed consent

Answer 7

Poor information

Being rushed into decision

Pressure by 3rd parties

Question 8

Who should take consent

Answer 8

If not the treating Dr then:

• somebody who is trained or qualified
• somebody who understands the procedure and any risks/ benefits
• somebody who understands GMC guidance