Informed Consent

When you are admitted to the hospital before surgery, you'll probably be asked to sign a form called "informed consent." This means that you are agreeing to the surgery, fully understanding what's going to happen and what risks you are accepting in the process. Be sure to ask for the form before you receive any anesthesia that may make you feel groggy, and long enough before surgery that you have time to read and understand it.

Informed consent forms are designed to make sure that:

• Your doctor has told you exactly what he or she is planning to do.
• You are aware of alternative treatment options.
• You understand the plan for surgery and its associated risks.

No matter how highly you regard your doctor, read over the form carefully. Be sure to sign a consent only for the procedure you and your doctor have discussed and agreed upon in advance.