Before surgery, your child's healthcare provider will explain the procedure and its risks. You will be asked to sign an informed consent form. It states in detail:
Before you sign the form, make sure all your questions are answered. Write down your questions before hand Then write down the answers as you discuss them with your child's provider.
One or both parents can sign for a minor child. A minor child is younger than 18 years of age. If the minor child is living with a legal guardian, the legal guardian can sign. A legal guardian will be asked to show proof of the legal relationship.
Parental (or legal guardian) consent is needed for procedures on a person under the age of 18. Teens should be part of the discussion about their health and their treatment. The issues and laws for confidentiality and informed consent with teens are complex. They vary from state to state. All their questions should be answered before their parent or guardian signs the consent form. Ask them to write down their questions and the answers. Some older teens also like to sign the consent form with their parent or guardian.
An emancipated minor is a person under age 18 who has become a legal adult. An emancipated minor may consent to their own medical care. The definition of an emancipated minor is determined by individual state laws.
Online Medical Reviewer: L Renee Watson MSN RNMarianne Fraser MSN RNRaymond Turley Jr PA-C
Date Last Reviewed: 1/1/2024
© 2000-2023 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.
© 2000-2023 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.