When discussing the topic of Informed Consent, H. Tristram Engelhardt Jr. describes three specific standards that may be used to more accurately define and promote informed consent. What are the three (3) standards to Informed Consent, as proposed by Engelhardt? What does each standard say is the basis for establishing Informed Consent?

standard 1

The professional standard for informed consent says that the medical professional is the best authority to determine what information is crucial for making an informed decision. The basis for establishing informed consent according to the professional standard is seen as the amount and type of information disclosed to a patient should reflect what another medical practitioner would tell their patient under similar circumstances.

standard 2

The objective standard shifts away from the determining party being the medical professional onto a “reasonable and prudent person.” The basis for establishing informed consent through this standard is that physicians are required to inform patients of all material risks. These are risks that a reasonable and prudent person would want to know to make an informed decision about treatment.

standard 3

The subjective standard is focused on the individual. This standard focuses on the individual needs, values, and concerns of each specific patient. The basis for establishing informed consent according to this standard is that the standard is customized to each individual based on their values, preferences, concerns, or fears. This is regardless of whether the risks or concerns are shared among physicians or other patients. Physicians must address all the personal worries a patient may have to establish informed consent.

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