Can we sign consent forms as "COVID 19"?

RE: Can we sign consent forms as "COVID 19"?

Sammy82 — Wed, 01 Apr 2020 11:25:44 GMT

We send consent forms (where possible, eg planned PTS or surgery) via email and get the client to respond with an email saying that they have read it and consent to it. Not quite an original signature but at least we have something in writing rather than just verbal which is easier to dispute.

RE: Can we sign consent forms as "COVID 19"?

Utlendigur — Wed, 01 Apr 2020 09:27:27 GMT

Had this on Monday when a client for some reason drove home rather than wait in the carpark while we examined the dog, which turned out to be a PTS. I got verbal consent over the phone, then asked the owner to confirm consent with the nurse so two witnesses.

RE: Can we sign consent forms as "COVID 19"?

Clive Ansell — Wed, 01 Apr 2020 07:57:53 GMT

Where I obtain verbal consent, I write that on the consent form along with time and date, telephone number if one was used, and anyone witness to it.

In normal times, if there is any whiff of a difficult client or and repercussions I would demand signed consent.

RE: Can we sign consent forms as "COVID 19"?

Iain Richards — Wed, 01 Apr 2020 07:49:44 GMT

You can't sign the consent form. You can mark the consent for as, "verbal consent given" and that is fine - if you have explained it to the owner. The signature on the form is proof that the conversation took place, but if you recall there was a case that a signed consent form was not accepted as consent because it was not, "informed".

RE: Can we sign consent forms as "COVID 19"?

Clive Ansell — Wed, 01 Apr 2020 07:44:52 GMT

Yes: It has always been the case that we can accept informed telephone or verbal consent, for example in the case of an ex-lap that becomes a PTS on the table.