Exam Pass Notes

Download (Word)

Key Takeaways

• Consent in pharmacy is an ongoing process that requires clear communication and regular confirmation.
• Valid consent is informed, voluntary, and given by a person with the capacity to make the specific decision.
• Implied consent can be acceptable for simple actions, but only when the person understands what will happen.
• People may withdraw or change their consent at any time; staff must respect and respond to that decision.
• Concerns about capacity, care of young people, confidentiality, and information-sharing often need additional assessment and escalation.

Types of Consent and Information

• Express consent: clearly given, either verbally or in writing.
• Implied consent: indicated by a person's actions, but valid only when they understand the intervention.
• Informed consent: the person has been told the purpose, risks, benefits, alternatives, likely practical consequences, and any relevant costs or follow-up.
• Written forms are records: they document the discussion and decision but do not substitute for a proper consent conversation.

Ongoing Consent and Validity

• Recheck consent: seek fresh consent if the plan changes, new information arises, significant time has passed, or the person appears uncertain.
• Voluntariness matters: pressure from staff, family or circumstances can invalidate consent.
• Capacity is decision-specific: assess capacity for the particular decision and provide support or escalate if there is doubt.
• Withdrawal must be respected: explain likely consequences clearly, but do not coerce the person to continue.

Young People and Pharmacy Practice

• 16 and 17 year olds: are generally presumed able to consent for themselves unless there is evidence to the contrary.
• Under 16s: may consent if they demonstrate sufficient maturity and understanding; Scotland follows its own statutory rules.
• Confidentiality still matters: competent young people should normally be treated with privacy unless there is a safeguarding reason to share information.
• In pharmacy services: consent applies to remote consultations, point-of-care tests, vaccinations, collection and delivery, and information-sharing with others.