What should be included when documenting informed consent for treatment of a minor?

• A. Parental consent; assent from the minor when capable; explain treatment in age-appropriate terms; provide opportunity to withdraw assent.
• B. Only parental consent.
• C. Assent from the minor only.
• D. Document risks and benefits only.

Answer: (A)

The main idea is that when treating a minor, the documentation should show both parental consent and the minor’s assent when the minor is capable, with the information given in terms the child can understand and with an opportunity for the child to withdraw assent. Parental consent is required because a parent or guardian has legal responsibility for the child’s medical decisions. Assent from the minor is sought to respect the child’s developing autonomy and to help ensure the treatment aligns with the child’s preferences, when the child is capable of understanding. This involves explaining the proposed care, including the purpose, what it involves, potential risks and benefits, and reasonable alternatives, in language appropriate to the child’s age and maturity. It also means documenting that the child was told they could assent or withdraw assent, and recording the child’s response and whether assent was given or withdrawn. If the minor cannot understand or cannot provide assent, parental consent remains essential, though clinicians still strive to involve the minor to the extent possible. This approach balances legal/ethical duties with respecting the child’s developing capacity to participate in decisions about their health.