When obtaining informed consent from a patient who cannot read, what is required?

Informed consent is a fundamental process in healthcare that ensures patients understand the nature of the procedure, potential risks, benefits, and alternatives before agreeing to it. When a patient cannot read, it becomes essential to ensure that they fully comprehend the information being presented to them.

The requirement to read the information verbatim to the patient ensures that there is no misunderstanding or miscommunication regarding the details of the procedure and its implications. This method guarantees that the patient receives the same information that would be conveyed in written form, preserving the integrity of the consent process. Additionally, this approach upholds ethical standards by ensuring that patients are informed of what they are consenting to.

It's important to recognize that options suggesting a spouse read the information, using medical interpreters, or summarizing the information do not provide the same level of assurance that the patient understands the critical information necessary for making an informed decision. Such alternatives may introduce variability or reduce clarity, which could compromise the validity of the consent obtained. Therefore, reading the information directly to the patient serves as the most reliable method to confirm their understanding and facilitate informed consent.