Which type of consent requires information about risks, benefits, and alternatives before treatment?

• A. Expressed consent
• B. Informed consent
• C. Implied consent
• D. Confidentiality

Answer: (B)

Before any treatment, you must provide the patient with information about what will be done, the possible risks and benefits, and any reasonable alternatives, so they can make an informed decision. That comprehensive disclosure and the patient’s voluntary agreement is what you call informed consent. It’s the type of consent that ensures the patient understands what could happen, what could help, and what other options exist, including what might happen if no treatment is chosen. Expressed consent is simply an explicit agreement, often in writing or spoken, but it doesn’t by itself require detailed discussion of risks and alternatives. Implied consent is inferred from the patient’s actions rather than a formal discussion. Confidentiality relates to privacy of information, not to agreeing to a treatment after being informed.