INFORMED CONSENT
Informed consent is a relatively new concept in bioethics having been developed primarily within the last 40 - 50 years. It developed from two different directions - research and clinical practice.
The research concern arose in the early 1950's following the discovery through the Nuremberg trials of Nazi medical experiments on human subjects in the death camps. Horrified by the Nazi experiments, and seriously committed to preventing history from repeating itself, requirements for consent were instituted as a means of protecting all people. As medical science began its Metonic rise into a brand-new age of technological and pharmaceutical advancement, experimentation on human subjects became both necessary and common. Again, the concept of informed consent was instituted to protect people from unwilling or unknown participation in modern experimental activities. Historically and traditionally principles of medical practice required physicians to do what they thought was best for the patient without concern for the patient’s point of view. However, in 1924, in his landmark and precedent setting decision, Judge Benjamin Cardoza applied law to the principles of individuality and autonomy in medical practice. Cardoza set the stage for legal acceptance and validation for the concept of informed consent.
In addition, the following social and political movements cemented this reality: • The patient's rights movement • Patient’s Bill of Rights in Ontario • Growing Consumerism • Growing public education and awareness of client rights in Health care
EXERCISE 5: DISCUSSION
Why is the concept of informed consent important for an ethical practice in EMT?
If clients are not informed or are misinformed, they cannot make the best decisions for their horse’s care. Responsible ethical practice requires that we respect the client and their ability to make autonomous and independent decision by following the guidelines of informed consent.
Purpose of the Consent to Treatment Act
The Consent to Treatment Act fulfilled the following roles:
1) Consent to treatment established the rights of people in Ontario to make informed decisions about health treatment.
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