The three essential elements of informed consent are which of the following?

• A. Accountability, beneficence, and paternalism
• B. Confidentiality, truthfulness, and advocacy
• C. Financial risk, rule of utility, and protection of privacy
• D. Information, comprehension, and freedom from coercion

Answer: (D)

Informed consent rests on three essential elements: information, comprehension, and freedom from coercion. Information means the patient receives clear, relevant details about the proposed intervention—the purpose, benefits, risks, alternatives, and what could happen if they choose not to proceed. Comprehension means the patient truly understands what was explained, which often requires using plain language, checking understanding (teach-back), and allowing time for questions. Freedom from coercion means the decision is voluntary, with no pressure, manipulation, or undue influence, and the patient has the capacity to decide. Together, these components protect the patient’s autonomy and ensure consent is valid. The other options mix ethical principles or concerns about privacy or risk disclosure but do not define the consent process itself.