What should be included in a documented informed consent for treatment?

• A. Evidence that the patient understood risks, benefits, alternatives, and that consent was voluntary.
• B. Only the signature is required.
• C. Only the date.
• D. Consent is assumed.

Answer: (A)

The key idea is that informed consent must show the patient truly understood what was being proposed and agreed to, including risks, benefits, and alternatives, and that their consent was voluntary. A proper documented consent goes beyond a mere signature or date. It demonstrates that the patient was informed about the procedure, its potential risks and benefits, reasonable alternatives (including opting not to proceed), and that they consented without coercion. The record should also note who obtained the consent, the exact procedure discussed, the date and time, and any questions the patient asked and how they were answered. This documentation protects patient autonomy and provides a clear legal record that the consent was informed and voluntary.