Chapter 10

Question 1

elements of valid informed consent

Answer 1

THRESHOLD elements (preconditions)

• capacity (to understand/decide)
• voluntariness (in deciding)

INFORMATION elements

• disclosure (of material info)
• recommendation of plan
• understanding of the above

CONSENT elements

• decision (in favor of a plan)
• authorization of chosen plan

Question 2

nurse’s role in informed consent

Answer 2

• provide major portion of info regarding treatment to pts (formal educational process or informal bedside conversation)
• make sure info presented by nurse and physician is consistent
• evaluation of process of informed consent - adequacy of disclosure and pt’s understanding/capacity/voluntariness

Question 3

elements of assent

Answer 3

1. pt helped to achieve developmentally appropriate awareness of situation
2. pt told what to expect w/ tests and tx
3. clinicians assess pt’s understanding and factors influencing pt’s response
4. clinicians solicit expression of pt’s willingness to accept proposed care