What it means
In health care, consent given under coercion is not valid, because informed consentin-FORMD kun-SENTA person's agreement to a treatment or procedure, given freely after the risks, benefits and other choices have been explained to them.Full entry must be voluntary. Threatening a client, for example with restraints, seclusion or loss of privileges, to make them accept treatment can be coercion and may count as assault. Abusers also use coercion to control a partner, child or older adult.
For the nurse
Explain choices and their likely results honestly, and accept a competent client's decision even if you disagree. If you suspect someone is being coerced by another person, speak with the client alone.
Related terms
informed consent
A person's agreement to a treatment or procedure, given freely after the risks, benefits and other choices have been explained to them.
autonomy
A person's right to make their own choices about their body and their care.
restraint
Any device, drug or method used to limit a person's movement or behavior that they cannot easily remove or refuse.