Informed Consent
The process of educating patients about treatment risks, benefits, and alternatives before obtaining their agreement to proceed.
Full Definition
Informed consent in physical therapy involves explaining treatment procedures, potential risks, expected benefits, and alternative options to patients before beginning care. This process must be documented and may require written consent forms for certain high-risk procedures or research participation. The consent process should be appropriate to the patient's cognitive level and language preferences. Documentation must reflect that the patient understood the information provided and voluntarily agreed to treatment. Ongoing consent may be required as treatment plans change.
Usage
Usage note: Must document both the information provided and the patient's understanding and agreement.
In Context
- "Informed consent obtained for dry needling intervention with discussion of risks." — Treatment documentation
- "Patient provided informed consent after explanation of exercise program benefits and precautions." — Initial evaluation