Ward work & theatre careFree in the app
Valid consent
Capacity, information and free choice.
Source: GMC · RCOG Consent Advice · Montgomery 2015- She must have capacity, be properly informed, and decide freely.
- Tell her material risks — what a reasonable woman in her position would want to know — and alternatives, including no treatment.
- Use an interpreter where needed; do not rely on the husband to translate.
- Consent for an emergency can be verbal; document it.
- An adult woman with capacity can refuse treatment, even if it harms the baby.
- Record the discussion, the risks given in numbers, and her questions.
A summary for trained clinicians. Always check the full guideline, the patient in front of you and your hospital's protocol. Spotted an error? Tell us.