What is an appropriate strategy when obtaining informed consent from a patient with limited health literacy?

• A. Use plain language, avoid medical jargon, and verify understanding with teach-back
• B. Provide a lengthy medical pamphlet
• C. Rely on family members to decide
• D. Skip consent to save time

Answer: (A)

When obtaining consent from someone with limited health literacy, the goal is clear understanding through plain language and confirmation that the person truly grasps what is being proposed. Using simple terms and avoiding medical jargon makes the information accessible, and it’s helpful to explain things step by step, using concrete examples or visuals when possible. The teach-back method is key: after you explain the plan, ask the patient to restate in their own words what will happen, why it’s recommended, the risks and benefits, and what alternatives exist. If their explanation isn’t accurate, you rephrase and clarify until you receive an correct understanding. This approach respects the patient’s autonomy, supports safer decision-making, and reduces the risk of misunderstandings that could lead to harm.

Providing a lengthy pamphlet often doesn’t ensure comprehension for someone with limited literacy, and relying on family to decide can sideline the patient’s own preferences. Skipping consent altogether is unethical and illegal; informed consent is a process that centers on the patient’s capacity to understand and freely choose. If language or literacy barriers remain, bring in interpreters or translated materials and use visuals to reinforce the information.