Name two scenarios that require patient consent prior to a procedure.

Name two scenarios that require patient consent prior to a procedure.

• A. Getting a prescription refill.
• B. Gowning and handwashing.
• C. Taking patient vitals and measuring vision.
• D. Intraocular injections and cataract surgery.

Answer: (D)

Consent is required whenever a procedure involves an invasive intervention with risks, so the patient must understand what will be done, the potential benefits and risks, and any alternatives before agreeing. Intraocular injections fit this, as they insert medication into the eye and carry risks like infection, bleeding, or changes in vision; patients must be informed and consent given before proceeding. Cataract surgery is another example because it is a surgical procedure with anesthesia considerations and possible complications, making explicit informed consent essential. By contrast, routine tasks such as taking vitals, measuring vision, gowning, handwashing, or a prescription refill do not involve a procedure with such risks and typically do not require formal consent.

Consent is required whenever a procedure involves an invasive intervention with risks, so the patient must understand what will be done, the potential benefits and risks, and any alternatives before agreeing. Intraocular injections fit this, as they insert medication into the eye and carry risks like infection, bleeding, or changes in vision; patients must be informed and consent given before proceeding. Cataract surgery is another example because it is a surgical procedure with anesthesia considerations and possible complications, making explicit informed consent essential. By contrast, routine tasks such as taking vitals, measuring vision, gowning, handwashing, or a prescription refill do not involve a procedure with such risks and typically do not require formal consent.