What is the best way to explain patient consent forms?

2 Use simple language

One of the main challenges of explaining patient consent forms is to avoid medical jargon and technical terms that may confuse or intimidate the patient. You should use simple, plain, and everyday language that the patient can understand. You should also avoid abbreviations, acronyms, and numbers that may not be meaningful to the patient. For example, instead of saying "We will perform a laparoscopic cholecystectomy", you could say "We will remove your gallbladder through a small cut in your belly".

3 Check for comprehension

Another challenge of explaining patient consent forms is to ensure that the patient has understood the information and has no questions or concerns. You should check for comprehension by asking open-ended questions, such as "What do you think are the benefits of this procedure?" or "What worries you about this treatment?". You should also encourage the patient to ask questions, and answer them honestly and patiently. You should avoid leading or suggestive questions, such as "You agree with this, right?" or "You don't have any doubts, do you?".

4 Respect the patient's decision

The final challenge of explaining patient consent forms is to respect the patient's decision, whether they agree or disagree with the intervention. You should not pressure, coerce, or manipulate the patient into signing the consent form, or make them feel guilty or ashamed for refusing or withdrawing their consent. You should also acknowledge and address any barriers or obstacles that may prevent the patient from giving their consent, such as language, culture, religion, or disability. You should support the patient's autonomy and dignity, and document their consent or dissent accordingly.

5 Review and revise

The last tip for explaining patient consent forms is to review and revise them periodically. Patient consent is not a one-time event, but an ongoing process that may change over time. You should revisit the consent form with the patient whenever there is a change in their condition, preferences, or goals of care. You should also update the consent form if there are new risks, benefits, or alternatives that emerge from the medical evidence or practice. You should always keep the patient informed and involved in their care decisions.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?