What action demonstrates informed consent in service planning?

• A. Proceed after telling the client what you will do next.
• B. Explain options clearly, ask for consent, document it.
• C. Avoid documenting consent to keep the plan simple.
• D. Assume consent if the client seems engaged.

Answer: (B)

Informed consent in service planning means the person understands the options, what each option involves, and then voluntarily agrees to a plan with that agreement properly documented. The best action reflects this by clearly explaining the available options, asking for the person’s explicit consent to proceed with a chosen plan, and recording that consent in the record. This approach supports autonomy, shared decision-making, and provides a verifiable record for accountability and continuity of care.

Telling the client what will be done next captures communication but doesn’t ensure they understand all options or consent. Avoiding documentation misses a crucial piece of accountability and legal/ethical requirement. Assuming consent if the client seems engaged overlooks the need for explicit agreement and can ignore factors like capacity, preferences, or potential misunderstandings.