What should be included in informed consent for PT care?

• A. Risks and benefits only.
• B. Risks, benefits, and alternatives.
• C. Only the therapist's plan.
• D. Risks, benefits, alternatives, and patient decision.

Answer: (D)

Informed consent in physical therapy is a collaborative process where the patient understands what the care involves, why it’s recommended, and what could happen as a result. The best choice includes risks, benefits, alternatives, and the patient’s decision. This combination ensures the patient can make a voluntary, informed choice about proceeding with care, which aligns with ethical practice, patient autonomy, and legal standards. Alternatives may include other treatments or the option to decline, and the patient’s decision must be respected and documented. Options that omit alternatives or the patient’s decision, or focus only on the therapist’s plan, fail to reflect true informed consent.