Which statement best describes how to document informed consent for a minor?

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

Answer: (B)

Documenting informed consent for a minor requires capturing both parental consent and the minor’s own assent when they are capable, along with explaining the treatment in language appropriate to the minor and giving them a real option to withdraw assent. Parental consent authorizes care, while assent reflects the minor’s voluntary agreement to the proposed plan. The explanation should cover what will be done, why it’s recommended, possible risks and benefits, and available alternatives, all described in terms the minor can understand. The note should record who gave consent, that the information was presented accessibly, whether the minor assented, any questions asked, and whether assent was withdrawn. Relying only on parental consent misses the minor’s understanding; assent alone ignores the parental role and legal authority; documenting only risks and benefits fails to show that the decision was informed and voluntary.