We at the Japanese Red Cross Medical Center believe that by sharing with our patients the information needed to perform medical treatments and building a relationship based on trust, we can provide care that will satisfy our patients’ needs. It is with this in mind that we provide the information necessary and sufficient for patients to understand and agree to the content, necessity, course, and consequences of treatment and consent to it of their own accord.
Explaining Medical Procedures
Depending on how invasive they are, medical procedures sometimes present risks to the patient’s health. Before performing tests or treatments that are considered invasive, such as surgery, anesthesia, or blood transfusions, we provide information on and explanations of the following items based on a written document (a “Medical Consent Form”):
•The necessity for, and the goals, means, and results of, the medical procedure.
•The expected effects of and risks associated with the procedure and the measures to be taken if unexpected conditions are encountered.
•The availability of alternative procedures and their content.
•The prognosis if no treatment is provided.
A verbal explanation is provided for tests and treatment that are largely non-invasive, such as blood tests, urinalysis, simple X-ray exams, ultrasounds, and intravenous cannulation.
Please note that in the event of sudden cardiac arrest, shock due to blood loss, mental disorders, and surgical emergencies occurring during treatment, the need to begin medical procedures immediately takes priority over the provision of information. In such cases, an explanation will be provided later.
Obtaining Consent
The patient is requested to sign the consent form once the procedure has been explained to them and, if necessary, to members of their family. In some circumstances, such as if the patient is a minor or their ability to make decisions is considered to be impaired, a parent, legal guardian, conservator, or other person with the legal authority to act on their behalf may sign the consent form in their stead.
As a patient, you are encouraged to ask questions, request additional explanations, and state your opinions during the process. You may withhold or decline to provide your consent if you feel the explanation is inadequate. In addition, you may withdraw your consent once it has been provided. You can also ask for a second opinion if so desired. You will suffer no disadvantage as a result.