Ethics & Law · single question
Which element is essential for valid informed consent?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: A. Disclosure of risks, benefits, and alternatives so the patient can make a voluntary, competent decision
Valid informed consent requires that a competent patient voluntarily agrees after disclosure of the diagnosis, the proposed treatment, its risks and benefits, alternatives, and the consequences of no treatment.Other options: Provider preference alone, automatic implied consent, or cost-only disclosure do not meet informed-consent standards.Key exam takeaway: Informed consent = voluntary, competent decision after disclosure of risks, benefits, alternatives, and no-treatment consequences.