Many of us, women believe that once we are in a hospital, we must sign and consent to whatever procedures they recommend. This is usually not true, but it also depends on the pre-admission forms that you sign and what is the most important - on the educational quality of information you receive. So, yes - you do have the right to clear explanation, education and to refuse any treatment that you do not want. What is Informed Consent? Informed consent is the idea that you must be fully aware of the risks and benefits of a procedure, as well as other options in your situation, before agreeing to undergo that procedure. A doctor should provide you with: A diagnosis or description of the situation His/her recommended procedure or treatment and reason for that! The full risks and benefits to this procedure or treatment Alternative treatment options — anything available, regardless of cost or insurance coverage The risks and benefits of alternative options - Ok, this and this may happen, or you might develop this and this kind of problems but then, it can be treated conservatively by the physiotherapist, obstetrician, gynaecologist etc.. If the problem persists you will be referred to the surgeon for further investigation. You must be given a choice! 'Is this procedure medically necessary ? What are the risks and benefits of this procedure? Do we have any alternatives? What risks and benefits are involved to having no treatment at this time? and.. How can I be helped if this and this happens?' These questions are worth remembering. Don't hesitate to use them. Source: Informed Decision-Making for Labour & Birth Deanna Stirling B.Sc.N., R.N. Jeanell Vanbesien B.Sc.N., R.N. Rachel McDougall B.Sc.N., R.N NEXT WEEK ' COPING WITH PAIN DURING LABOUR - WHAT'S AVAILABLE?'
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Informed consent for your vaginal delivery.Do you know what your options are? Archives |