Florida Physical Therapy Jurisprudence Practice Exam

What is the responsibility of a physical therapist regarding informed consent for treatment?

1. Document the patient's verbal consent only

2. Ensure the patient has received and understood the information

3. Verbal agreement is sufficient

4. Consent can be obtained from family members only

The correct answer is: Ensure the patient has received and understood the information

The responsibility of a physical therapist regarding informed consent for treatment is critical to ensuring that patients make knowledgeable decisions about their care. The correct choice highlights that the therapist must ensure the patient has received and understood the information related to their treatment options, potential risks, benefits, and alternatives. Informed consent goes beyond merely documenting a verbal agreement. It requires that the therapist effectively communicates the necessary details in a way that the patient can comprehend, which may involve checking for understanding or allowing the patient to ask questions. This process supports patient autonomy and helps establish a trusting client-therapist relationship. The other options do not meet the standard of informed consent because they either simplify the concept into only verbal confirmation or suggest that consent can come from family members without the patient’s direct involvement, which may undermine the patient's rights and understanding of their treatment. Engaging the patient directly ensures they have the opportunity to participate actively in their care plan, which is essential to ethical practice in healthcare.