Picture this scenario:
As you enter the room for your 39 week Prenatal Appointment, you are given a gown and asked to remove your pants and underwear so that you'll be ready for your vaginal exam.
How should you respond?
You could do as you were told, even though you don't want a vaginal exam, or you could use your B.R.A.I.N.
When presented with options regarding your healthcare, try the BRAIN acronym!
B- Benefits : "What are the potential benefits of this procedure?"
R- Risks : "What are the risks associated with this procedure?"
A- Alternatives : "Are there any alternative options?"
I- Intuition : Check in with yourself. What does your intuition tell you? How are you feeling about the options?
N- Nothing/Not Now : "What happens if we do nothing?" or "I would like to do more research before making my decision, so I do not consent to that procedure right now."
All patients have the right to true Informed Consent and Refusal, meaning you should be provided with all of the information regarding your options, you should be given the opportunity to ask questions, and then you have the right to Consent or Refuse any treatment options.
Remember that no one can force you to do anything, and you can and should advocate for excellent care for yourself, your baby, and your family!
Have you used the BRAIN acronym when making healthcare decisions?
If so, we'd love to hear about your experience!
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