What does the term "informed consent" mean in the healthcare setting?

In the healthcare setting, "informed consent" refers to a patient's agreement to undergo a specific treatment or procedure after being thoroughly informed about the potential risks, benefits, alternatives, and implications associated with it. This process ensures that patients have the opportunity to understand the nature of their condition, the proposed interventions, and the consequences of not receiving treatment.

The emphasis is on the patient's right to make an informed choice, which requires clear communication and a comprehensive explanation by the healthcare provider. This concept is rooted in ethical principles that respect patient autonomy and promote shared decision-making between the patient and the healthcare team.

The definition captures the essence of autonomy in healthcare, ensuring that patients are not just passively agreeing but are actively involved in their healthcare decisions based on complete and accurate information.