Ethics of consent (pie) Flashcards
If a patient is mentally competent then what he/she says is in her best interests - T/F?
True
Describe the difference between consent and contract
Consent = Agreement to do something or allow someone to do something to them. Can be withdrawn by the consented anytime without penalties. Withdrawal of consent must be respected immediately as it is not binding
Contract = Agreement to do something or allow someone to do something to them. Withdrawing can have consequences (e.g. financial penalties or other compensations). It is binding
What is the GMC guidance for getting consent ?
Doctor outlines the treatment options
and lets the patient decide
Does the reason for a patient refusing treatment have to be justified ?
No - as long as they are mentally competent/ The reason does not have to be:
- Logical
- Prudent
- Rational
- Reflected
- Justified
- Communicated
- Discussed
- Correct according to you or your colleagues
What are the requirements for valid consent ?
- i.Capacity (competence): ability to give or withdraw consent
- ii.Information: patient received enough information and understands the information (you should check this by asking questions and you must allow patient to ask questions, to which you respond honestly)
- iii.Voluntariness: deciding voluntarily (not coerced)
In an emergency situation and you have not been able to get consent what can you do ?
- If the treatment is immediately necessary to save a patient’s life or to prevent a serious deterioration:
- You can treat patients without their consent
- The treatment must be the least restrictive of the patient’s future choices
What are some of the options you could do if there is still uncertainty or disagreement regarding consent ?
- Consult it with other colleagues
- Ask more senior colleague for advice
- Ask for second opinion
- Consider mediation or involving an independent advisor
