Journal-based CME Course: The Limits of Informed Consent in the Overwhelmed Patient: Clinician’s Role in Protecting Patients and Preventing Overwhelm

Activity ID

10729

Expires

August 31, 2025

Format Type

Journal-based

CME Credit

Fee

$30

CME Provider: AMA Journal of Ethics

Description of CME Course

In this paper, we examine the limits of informed consent with particular focus on ways in which various factors can overwhelm decision-making capacity. We introduce overwhelm as a phenomenon commonly experienced by patients in clinical settings and distinguish between emotional overwhelm and informational overload. We argue that in these situations, a clinician’s primary duty is prevention of harm and suggest ways in which clinicians can discharge this obligation. To illustrate our argument, we consider the clinical application of genetic sequencing testing, which involves scientific and technical information that can compromise the understanding and decisional capacity of most patients. Finally, we consider and rebut objections that this could lead to paternalism.

Disclaimers

1. This activity is accredited by the American Medical Association.
2. This activity is free to AMA members.

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NOTE: If a Member Board has not deemed this activity for MOC approval as an accredited CME activity, this activity may count toward an ABMS Member Board’s general CME requirement. Please refer directly to your Member Board’s MOC Part II Lifelong Learning and Self-Assessment Program Requirements.

General Information on CME Activity

Educational Objectives

At the end of this activity, you will be able to:
1. Explain a new or unfamiliar viewpoint on a topic of ethical or professional conduct;
2. Evaluate the usefulness of this information for health care practice, teaching, or conduct;
3. Decide whether and when to apply the new information to health care practice, teaching, or conduct.

Keywords

Ethics, Shared Decision Making and Communication

Competencies

Medical Knowledge, Professionalism

CME Credit Type

AMA PRA Category 1 Credit

DOI

10.1001/journalofethics.2016.18.9.peer2-1609