Informed Consent: Ethical and Legal Considerations for Advanced Practice Nurses

The ethical principles of self-determination and autonomy govern the practice of informed consent. A patient's right to shared decision-making and assent prior to invasive procedures, therapeutic interventions, and research projects is protected by law. Foundational nursing roles of communication, education, and patient advocacy compel advance practice nurses to formulate methods that safeguard patients' rights. Legal implications of informed consent may vary, leaving nurse practitioners juxtaposed between judicial and ethical responsibilities. The goal of this study is to examine legal and ethical components of informed consent and to assist nurse practitioners in developing proactive practice strategies related to informed consent.