1. The nature of the procedure

   • purposes of the using the drug or treatment,

   • the expected duration of the patients procedure or treatment,

   • procedures to be followed

2. The risks and benefits and the procedure

   • Benefits

   • A description of any foreseeable harm,

   • discomfort,  

   • risk

3. Reasonable alternatives

   • disclosure of any appropriate alternative procedures that might be advantageous

4. Risks and benefits of alternatives

5. Assessment of the patient's understanding of elements 1 through 4.

   • For consent to be valid, it must be voluntary and informed, and the person consenting must have the capacity to make the decision. capacity – the person must be capable of giving consent, which means they understand the information given to them and can use it to make an informed decision.

If you or a loved one have suffered malpractice at the hands of a doctor or nurse you file a report in your state.