What term describes the legal permission required for a medical procedure?

The term that describes the legal permission required for a medical procedure is informed consent. Informed consent is a critical process in healthcare, ensuring that patients receive adequate information about the proposed procedure, including its risks, benefits, and alternative options. This allows patients to make a knowledgeable decision regarding their treatment.

It is essential that patients are not only given information but also understand it, which is the core of "informed." This legal and ethical obligation protects patient autonomy and aids in preventing potential legal issues that could arise from procedures performed without proper consent.

Other terms, while related to patient care and decision-making, do not encapsulate this legal requirement as accurately. Verbal consent might imply agreement but does not guarantee that the patient has received comprehensive information about the procedure. Medical documentation refers to the recording of patient information and care rather than the consent process itself. Informed decision suggests a well-considered choice but lacks the legal nuance and comprehensive understanding that informed consent specifically entails.