This is a topic which has a high probability of turning up at some point during your application process. To start off, you will need to know the broad definition of consent. Next, you should know why consent is required and when consent is and when it is not valid. You should be aware of the rulings with respect to Bolam, Gillick and Montgomery. Have in your mind the information that a patient requires in order to consent. The GMC issues clear guidelines on consent and the ethical duties of a doctor.
What Is Consent In Medicine?
In short, it means “permission” for a doctor to examine or treat you.
For a doctor to gain consent, a person must give permission before they receive any type of medical treatment which includes any test or an examination.
In the long-distance past, a doctor would decide entirely for a patient. However, consent is based on the moral and legal rights of patient autonomy.
The consent has to be valid otherwise it can be called into question.
To be valid, consent must be given without pressure. The patient must have the capacity. The patient has been given all the information he or she needs to reach their decision.