Informed consent facts for kids

Informed consent is a really important idea in health care and research. It means getting clear permission from someone before doing something to them, like giving them medicine or asking them to join a study. It also means they fully understand what they are agreeing to.

Imagine you're at the doctor's office. Before a doctor gives you a new medicine or does a small procedure, they should explain what it is, why you need it, and what might happen. If you understand and agree, that's informed consent! It's all about respecting your right to decide what happens to your body.

This idea is based on medical ethics, which are like rules for doctors and scientists. These rules make sure everyone is treated fairly and with respect.

What is Informed Consent?

Informed consent means that a person agrees to something only after they fully understand it. They need to know all the important facts, what might happen, and any possible results. This helps make sure people can make good choices for themselves.

It's about respecting a person's dignity. To give informed consent, someone needs to be able to think clearly. They also need to have all the important information.

When Someone Cannot Give Consent

Sometimes, a person might not be able to give informed consent themselves. This could be because they are too young, or if they have certain health conditions that affect their thinking.

For example, very young children or people who are very unwell might not be able to understand everything. In these cases, another person, like a parent or a legal guardian, usually gives permission for them.

Even if a parent gives permission, a child might still be asked for their "informed assent." This means the child agrees to it in a way they can understand.

When Consent is Not Needed

There are a few special times when informed consent might not be needed right away. This usually happens in emergencies.

For example, if someone is unconscious and needs urgent medical help to save their life, doctors might act without getting permission first. This is called "implied consent," because it's assumed the person would want help.

Images for kids

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  In this Ottoman Empire document from 1539, a father promises not to sue a surgeon if his son dies after surgery.

See also

In Spanish: Consentimiento informado para niños