[Information and consent].

Abstract

Informed consent is applied more and more in routine medical practice. It is the consequence of a long history during which patients' rights have been progressively better recognised. This process begins by the right to be informed about one's health or disease and about consecutive treatment. After this information is given the patient is free to give opinion, consent or refusal with regard to what the physician proposes to improve his/her health or to treat the disease, according to present medical knowledge. Medical science has a power which must not constrain excessively patients, who may refuse some medical intervention, particularly if they have received adequate information and if they have their faculties. The physician is responsible for affording consistent information and for respecting patient's right to self-determination.