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Informed consent

1. Informed Consent Dr. Loai Zabin

2. What is Informed Consent ? Informed consent الموافقة المستنيرة is a legal and ethical process. It happens when a healthcare provider explains a treatment or procedure, and the patient agrees to it after understanding everything involved. It protects the patient’s right to make decisions about their own care . Informed consent is the process in which a healthcare provider educates a patient about the risks , benefits , and alternatives of a given procedure or intervention.

3. CONSENT REQUIRES A COMPLETE UNDERSTANDING Understanding is key. It's not enough to just sign a form—the patient must actually comprehend what they are agreeing to. CONSENT الموافقة ≠ DISCLOSURE الافصاح This means that just disclosing information (by the healthcare provider) is not the same as obtaining consent. Disclosure : The healthcare provider gives information about the procedure. Consent : The patient, after understanding that information, voluntarily agrees to proceed.

4. Why is Informed Consent Important? Informed consent is important because: It respects the patient’s right to make their own choices ( autonomy ). It creates trust between the patient and the healthcare team. It protects patients from unwanted treatments. It protects healthcare providers from legal issues.

5. Legal and Ethical Principles Informed consent is based on several ethical principles: Autonomy : Patients decide what happens to their bodies. Beneficence : Do what is best for the patient. Non-maleficence : Avoid causing harm. Justice : Treat all patients fairly. Veracity : Tell the truth. Fidelity : Keep promises and be loyal to patient care.

6. Key Elements of Informed Consent There are three main elements: Information – The patient receives clear and complete information about the treatment or procedure. Comprehension الفهم – The patient understands the information. Voluntariness الطوعية – The patient makes the decision freely, without pressure.

7. What Should the Patient Be Told? The healthcare provider must explain: What the treatment or procedure is. Why it is needed. Who will perform it ? How it will be done. The expected benefits . The possible risks or side effects. Other available options . What may happen if they refuse ?

8. Characteristics of Valid Consent For consent to be valid : It must be given freely , without being forced. The patient must be of legal age and mentally able to decide. Information must be complete and easy to understand . Consent must be given before treatment. The patient has the right to change their mind ( withdrawn ينسحب ) .

9. Forms of Consent Consent can be given in different ways: Written – For surgeries and serious procedures. Verbal – For simple or routine treatments. Implied ضمني – When the patient allows care by their actions (e.g., rolling up their sleeve for an injection).

10. When is Consent Not Needed? Sometimes, consent is not possible. In emergencies where the patient is unconscious or unable to decide, treatment is given to save their life. This is called the emergency exception, and legal rules allow it. In life-threatening emergencies Patient unconscious or unable to respond Emergency exception applies

11. Who Cannot Give Consent? Some people cannot give consent, such as: Minors (under legal age) unless exceptions apply. People with serious mental conditions . Unconscious or heavily sedated patients. In these cases, consent is taken from a legal guardian or family member .

12. Informed Consent in Research Research requires special consent. Participants must know: It is a research study, not a standard treatment. Why the study is being done. What they will be asked to do. How long it will last. Any risks or discomforts. Any benefits (if any). That they can stop at any time without penalty.

13. Capacity to Consent القدرة على الموافقة To give informed consent, a person must be able to: Understand the information. Remember it long enough to decide. Think about it and weigh the options. Communicate their choice in any way (speaking, writing, gestures).

14. How to Assess Understanding Nurses can check to understand using the teach-back method: Ask the patient to repeat what they understood. This helps make sure they truly understand. Watch for confusion or fear, and explain again if needed.

15. The Nurse’s Role Nurses help support the informed consent process by: Support doctor explanations Checking if the patient understands. Comforting and answering questions. Making sure the patient is not being pressured. Documenting what was said and agreed upon. Be patient’s advocate

16. What Nurses Should Avoid Nurses must: Not force or pressure the patient to agree. Not ignore questions or doubts شكوك . Not take the place of the doctor in explaining complicated procedures. Not allow the patient to sign if they are unsure or afraid.

17. Special Cases Some procedures need extra care: HIV Testing – Requires special consent because of social and psychological risks. Research – Consent may need to be repeated if anything changes. Mental Health – Consent may involve legal steps. Cultural Issues – Language and beliefs must be respected.

18. Summary Informed consent is more than a form – it’s a process. It protects patient rights. It ensures ethical and legal care. Nurses play a key role in helping patients understand and feel safe while making decisions. Consenting to treatment is scary. As much as possible, obtain consent in a quiet and calm setting , with time to answer questions.