Introduction

The purpose of this policy is to set out the practice’s approach to consent and the way in which the principles of consent will be put into practice.

Where possible, a clinician must be satisfied that a patient understands and consents to a proposed treatment, immunisation or investigation.

The clinician must also ensure that other possible treatment options, including the risks and benefits of each, have been explained to the patient before the patient makes their decision to consent.

Where a patient is accompanied by a carer, advocate or other support person, the clinician will ensure that:

• they understand the care, treatment and support choices available to the patient;
• involve them appropriately in making decisions about the patient’s care;
• give opportunities for them to represent the views of the patient;

Whether explaining to a patient, carer, advocate or other support person; information given will include the nature, purpose, and risks of the procedure. If necessary, the use of drawings, interpreters, videos or other means will also be used to ensure that they understand, and have enough information to give ‘Informed Consent’.

The practice will ensure that where consent is necessary, the relevant form will be completed and scanned on to the patient’s record.

Implied Consent

Implied consent will be assumed for many routine physical contacts with patients.

Where implied consent is to be assumed by the clinician, in all cases, the following will apply:

• An explanation will be given to the patient what s/he is about to do, and why.
• The explanation will be sufficient for the patient to understand the procedure.
• Where there is a significant risk to the patient an ‘Expressed Consent’ will be obtained in all cases.

Expressed Consent

Expressed consent (written or verbal) will be obtained for any procedure which carries a risk that the patient is likely to consider as being substantial.

A note will be made in the medical record detailing the discussion about the consent and the risks. A Consent Form may be used for the patient to express consent.