What is cleft lip and palate? What is glue ear? Patient stories Tests and procedures Consent

 

When the surgeon has explained the procedure he intends to carry out on you child, he will ask you to sign a consent form which says that you are giving your agreement to the treatment.

 

The surgeon will explain what he is aiming to achieve with the operation along with any risks that might be involved.

 

He will also explain any other procedures that might become necessary during the procedure - for example, a blood transfusion.

 

On the second page, the form asks you amongst other things to consent that, where appropriate, any tissue removed as part of the procedure - but not needed for diagnosis or treatment - may be used for research or teaching.

 

It also asks you to consent to the use of photography for the purposes of diagnosis and treatment, and that you are happy for any of these photographs to be used for medical teaching.

 

When both you and the surgeon have signed the form, you will be given a copy to keep for your records.

 

The consent process is a very important one and your signature signifies the end of the process: you indicate by signing that you have understood what you have been told, that you have asked any questions that you might have, and that you have agreed to the procedure as explained.

 

Please make sure you ask all your questions before you sign the form. If you decide to say "no" to any of the extra statements on page 2, your wishes will be respected and your decision will have no effect on the way your child is treated.

 

 

 

 

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