The law recognises that it is in the best interest for emergency treatment to go ahead if it is necessary to save a life or to prevent serious or permanent disability.

Consent

• Process where patients understand and agree to treatment
• Full discussion of disease, treatment, benefits, risks and alternative treatments
• Verbal or written
• Patients can change their mind / seek alternative opinions
• Children: (1) Child able to consent if judged to be competent (2) otherwise parent or legal guardian can act on behalf (3) Child cannot refuse treatment
• Adult: (1) Only the adult or (2) someone with power of attorney.  Relatives should be involved but cannot consent or withold consent on another individual's behalf.

Who should obtain consent?

• Operating surgeon
• Suitably qualified person who has knowledge of procedure and understanding of risks and benefits.
• All complications with >1% risk should be discussed
• Potentially life-threatening risks should be discussed