INTRODUCTION
The Health Care Consent Act (HCCA) and the Substitute Decisions Act (SDA) describe the legislative requirements for Respiratory Therapists (RTs) in regards to obtaining consent. The HCCA specifies that regulated health professionals are to follow their CRTO’s guidelines relating to obtaining consent and the provision of information to patients/clients who are found to be incapable.
The HCCA deals with obtaining consent in the following circumstances:
(i) for treatment,
(ii) for admission to a care facility and
(iii) for receiving personal assistance services.
In the context of Respiratory Therapy’s scope of practice, RTs are generally accountable for obtaining consent (or ensuring that consent has been obtained) from patients/clients regarding treatment.