Elements necessary for informed consent in patients with schizophrenia

Abstract

In this paper we want analyze informed consent theory as applied to schizophrenia. To that end, we identify the necessary elements for a process to be autonomous, voluntary and reported in sufficient quality and quantity, and for delegation of decision making authority. Finally, we analyze the exceptions that are accepted, in both medical praxis and legal norms, for medical intervention without the patient’s consent: urgency, patient’s waiver to be communicated, therapeutic privilege, and incapacity to make decisions.