Physicians who provide services to patients are compelled, ethically and morally, to allow patients to make their own health care decisions based upon all material information available. Informed consent is a legal requirement applicable to all medical care. ![]() This issue ofĮD Legal Letter illustrates the issues that emergency physicians encounter regarding informed consent and the exceptions that may apply. A mistake will bring the wrath of disgruntled family members who undoubtedly will bring suit for negligence. The emergency physician must ensure that the patient is competent to make these decisions. Finally, patients can and do refuse treatments that may be lifesaving. ![]() In addition, they must know when patients can refuse treatment and when consent is not needed. ![]() Emergency physicians have an obligation to make decisive and rapid treatment decisions. Rapid diagnosis and treatment can be lifesaving, and any delay in obtaining consent may have devastating consequences to the patient. Liang, MD, PhD, JD, John and Rebecca Moores Professor and Director pro tempore, Health Law & and Policy Institute, University of Houston Law Center Adjunct Professor of Medical Humanities, Institute for Medical Humanities, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston.Įditor’s note: Emergency practitioners must understand patients’ rights regarding informed consent.
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