Introduction to Consent

Question 1

What are the four ways in which consent can be given?

Answer 1

Orally
Written
Expressed
Implied

Question 2

What are the four circumstances where consent must be obtained?

Answer 2

1. Before examination, treatment or care
2. Before disclosure of confidential information
3. For teaching purposes
4. For clinical research

Question 3

For consent to be valid, what three things must apply?

Answer 3

1. The consent must be informed
2. The consent must be voluntary
3. The patient must have capacity

Question 4

Give six reasons for why consent is required?

Answer 4

1. It is an ethical requirement
   1a. Demonstrates respect for patient autonomy
   1b. Avoids harm to the patient
   1c. Builds trust with the patient
2. It is a legal requirement
3. It is a professional requirement
   3a. Avoids battery
   3b. Avoids negligence issues

Question 5

In what 4 circumstances is consent not required?

Answer 5

1. In a medical emergency, where you cannot find out the patients wishes
2. If being treated under the Mental Health Act 1983
3. If patient lacks capacity and treatment is in their best interests
4. Public Health Act 1984

Question 6

What is the definition of consent?

Answer 6

In medical contexts, consent is the properly informed decision of a competent patient, freely given.

Question 7

Give an example of implied consent

Answer 7

Stretching out an arm for a vaccination

Question 8

At what age are children presumed to be able to give consent?

Answer 8

16 years of age

Question 9

What is battery?

Answer 9

When one person touches another person, without their consent

Question 10

What is negligence?

Answer 10

A cause/connection between failure of disclosing information, which has caused later harm to a patient

Question 11

Under what circumstance can a children under 16 years of age provide consent without a parent?

Answer 11

If they are assessed to be Gillick competent