Final answer:
To conduct blood tests for exposure determination, an informed consent form is mandatory for the patient to sign, outlining the test's purpose, procedures, risks, benefits, and confidentiality, emphasizing that participation is voluntary and can be withdrawn at any time.
Step-by-step explanation:
To permit blood tests to determine exposure, both the patient and the provider must sign an informed consent form. This form is a key element in research and medical procedures, ensuring that the patient is fully aware of the details of the procedure or study, including its purpose, procedures, risks, benefits, and the voluntary nature of participation. It serves to protect patient autonomy by ensuring that consent is given freely and with a full understanding of what the procedure entails.
Informed consent forms must outline all risks and benefits, guarantee confidentiality, and reaffirm the participant’s right to withdraw from the study at any time without penalty. Additionally, for participants under the age of 18, parents or legal guardians must sign, indicating their permission and understanding of the study’s implications. These requirements stem from the ethical policies overseen by institutions' Institutional Review Boards (IRBs), which prioritize participant safety and informed participation in any study or medical procedure.