What does the term 'informed consent' mean?

The term 'informed consent' refers to the process of providing a patient with sufficient information about a medical procedure, treatment, or intervention so that they can make an educated and voluntary decision regarding their own healthcare. This means that the patient must understand the purpose of the treatment, the potential risks and benefits, alternatives to the treatment, and any other relevant information before agreeing to proceed.

Informed consent is a critical component of ethical medical practice, as it ensures that patients have the autonomy to make decisions about their own bodies and treatments. When a healthcare provider obtains informed consent, it reflects respect for the patient's rights, promotes trust in the healthcare system, and helps to ensure that patients are active participants in their care.

The other answer choices do not accurately capture the essence of informed consent. A patient's written agreement to pay medical bills relates to financial matters rather than medical decision-making. A legal document that outlines patient rights may pertain to patient advocacy but does not encompass the specifics of informed consent. A form for documenting a patient's medical history records past medical information, which is distinct from the consent process, focusing instead on the patient's current understanding and agreement concerning future care.