Final answer:
Before testing, a patient must sign an informed consent form, which outlines the procedure, risks, benefits, and ensures their participation is voluntary and confidential.
Step-by-step explanation:
Prior to testing, a patient must first sign an informed consent. The informed consent form is crucial as it provides a patient with understandable information about what they can expect during a procedure or experiment, any potential risks or benefits, as well as the implications of the research they are participating in. This form also communicates that participation is voluntary and can be withdrawn at any time without penalty, ensuring that a patient's autonomy is respected. Moreover, it offers a guarantee for the confidentiality of any data collected. For minors participating in a study, this consent must be provided by a parent or legal guardian.