Florida Basic Recruit Training Program High Liability (First Aid) Practice Exam

What is the term for consent that is inferred from a person's actions rather than stated directly?

1. Informed consent

2. Affirmative consent

3. Implied consent

4. Explicit consent

The correct answer is: Implied consent

The term for consent that is inferred from a person's actions rather than stated directly is known as implied consent. This occurs in situations where an individual’s behavior suggests agreement to a procedure or action without them verbally affirming it. For example, if a patient presents themselves for medical treatment and does not verbally refuse treatment, it can be reasonably assumed they consent to it, even if they haven’t explicitly stated so. Implied consent is commonly seen in emergency situations where obtaining explicit consent is not feasible. This can include cases where the individual is unconscious or incapacitated—a healthcare provider can act in the best interest of the patient based on the assumption that a reasonable person would want care. Furthermore, the concept of implied consent underlies many general interactions in society, where a person's actions may indicate their willingness to accept certain conditions. In contrast, informed consent requires that the individual is provided with adequate information and understands the risks and benefits before agreeing to the treatment. Affirmative consent entails a clear and enthusiastic agreement to engage in a particular activity, often used in contexts like sexual consent. Explicit consent involves direct verbal or written agreement, leaving no room for doubt about the person's wishes.