QuestionSBA
QuestionChoice
Verbal consent is required for an intimate examination, and this should be documented formally
31908
a
Verbal consent and document this in the notes
QuestionChoice
Consent in writing is not required for a rectal examination; verbal consent will suffice. A formal consent form with the patient's signature is required for surgical procedures
31910
c
Consent in writing before the rectal examination
QuestionChoice
Consent in writing is not required for a rectal examination; verbal consent will suffice. Consent should be obtained before the examination
31911
d
Consent in writing after rectal examination
QuestionChoice
Consent is required for intimate examinations such as a rectal examination
31912
e
No consent required
QuestionChoice
Verbal consent should be documented in the notes
31909
b
Verbal consent, no need to document this in the notes
QuestionComment
fairs to the 2% who decided they dont need consent x
23178
User
subscriber
Gas Ketone
Concept
Chapter
# Consent 

Consent must be obtained from a patient before undertaking a treatment or procedure. If it is not, then this could constitute the offence of **battery** ("touching in a harmful or offensive manner without consent or lawful justification") - even if there was no hostile intent or harm caused.

# Conditions for valid consent

Under the **Mental Capacity Act**, there are a number of conditions that have to be met for valid consent to be obtained from a patient:

1. The patient must have **capacity**. For this, the individual must be able to: understand information, retain information, weigh the information and reach a conclusion, and communicate the decision they have reached.

2. The consent must be **freely given** (i.e. uncoerced) and the patient must be **suitably informed** (i.e. have been given a suitable level of detail of the procedure, and expected outcomes and risks).

# Assumed Capacity 

For an adult, capacity is assumed unless there is reason to doubt; for example the patient has learning difficulties which impacts on their ability to understand and process new information.

# How Is Consent Taken?

Valid consent can be received in writing, verbally or tacitly (where it is implied or indicated). A signed consent form does not - by itself - equal 'consent', it is purely _related evidence_.

# Who Can Obtain Consent?

The person who should obtain the consent from a patient should be the professional undertaking the procedure, or someone familiar with it, who is able to explain all the necessary information and answer any questions the patient may have.
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Legal requirements for valid patient consent
Topic
30
Ethics and Law
Video
Concept
573
Legal requirements for valid patient consent
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Quesmed Tutorial: Gynaecology 1
Video
Concept
573
Legal requirements for valid patient consent
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Fraser Guidelines
6382
Verbal consent is essential before performing intimate examinations, and it must be documented in the patient's medical notes.
A 60-year-old inpatient experiences rectal bleeding. A rectal examination is indicated, which is performed by a junior doctor at the bedside. There are no concerns about their capacity to make decisions.

In terms of consent, which of the following is required?
a