When you speak with your medical provider about a procedure you’re considering, you expect them to be honest. You want them to be knowledgeable and to tell you all the possible side effects and risks involved.
If you go into a surgery without understanding the risks or begin a treatment not understanding the potential side effects, you could be left blindsided by injuries.
In the medical world, there is something called informed consent. This refers to the process of communication between a patient and their doctor about a treatment plan. A patient is said to have informed consent when they grant permission for a treatment after learning about all possible consequences, risks and benefits.
Doctors and nurses have to take every step possible to make sure that you understand treatments fully. You need to give informed consent for each procedure you choose to undergo. Failing to provide that for each one or not receiving information about each procedure can result in the basis for a medical malpractice claim should anything go wrong.
Why is informed consent so important?
Informed consent is extremely important because it guarantees that you know the risks and complications that could arise from a procedure. You will also have knowledge about other possible procedures and what to expect if you choose those over the treatment plan you’ve decided upon.
Informed consent gives you control over your body and health. Without information, there is no way for you to make an educated decision. Medical procedures can affect your life forever, so you should always be fully informed.