For invasive procedures like cardiac catheterization, what type of consent is necessary?

In the context of invasive procedures such as cardiac catheterization, formal, signed consent is essential. This type of consent reflects the requirement for patients to be fully informed about the procedure, including its risks, benefits, and alternatives. The complexity and potential risks associated with invasive procedures necessitate a thorough discussion between the healthcare provider and the patient, ensuring that the patient understands the implications of their decision.

Formal, signed consent serves as a legal and ethical safeguard, demonstrating that the patient acknowledges and agrees to undergo the procedure after being provided with adequate information. This protects both the patient's rights and the healthcare provider's responsibilities. The process also reinforces the importance of informed consent in medical practice, particularly in cases where patients might be exposed to significant risks or complications.

Invasive procedures require a higher level of consent due to the potential for serious outcomes, which is why merely opting for implied or verbal consent would be insufficient and inappropriate in this context.