Download ~ Commentary on the Need to Obtain Consent for Vaginal Delivery (Bioethics IN MEDICINE) ~ by South African Medical Journal ~ Book PDF Kindle ePub Free

eBook details

Title: Commentary on the Need to Obtain Consent for Vaginal Delivery (Bioethics IN MEDICINE)
Author : South African Medical Journal
Release Date : January 01, 2011
Genre: Health & Fitness,Books,Health, Mind & Body,
Pages : * pages
Size : 196 KB

Description

The arguments in the paper by Dhai et al. (1) may be summarised as follows: Since childbirth may take place by vaginal delivery or caesarean section, a choice must be made and consent to vaginal delivery is as necessary as consent for caesarean section. Dhai et al. affirm the patient's right to choose, together with the observation that the safety of vaginal delivery may be limited in the public sector. Rising caesarean section rates and the differences between public and private sector rates are noted. They argue that sound ethical and legal principles should be used in determining mode of delivery. The right to choose is enshrined in the process of informed consent, which requires full disclosure. This includes the possibility that the labour ward may be inadequately staffed. Dhai et al. state that informed consent and respect for patient autonomy are an 'ethical and legal imperative'; furthermore, they argue that failure to obtain consent may be construed to be assault. They also cite the Consumer Protection Act, which stipulates that consumers have a right to the performance of services in a manner and quality that persons may be entitled to expect.