What is the purpose of obtaining patient consent for medication administration?

The purpose of obtaining patient consent for medication administration primarily revolves around ensuring that patients agree to treatment voluntarily. This concept is rooted in the principles of autonomy and informed consent, which recognize the patient's right to make decisions regarding their own health care. When patients consent to medication administration, it reflects an understanding of the treatment being provided, including the benefits, risks, and alternatives involved.

This voluntary agreement is important in building trust in the healthcare provider-patient relationship and ensuring that patients feel respected and empowered in their treatment decisions. While legal compliance and protecting healthcare providers from negligence are important considerations in the broader context of healthcare practices, they are secondary to the foundational principle of respecting the patient's rights and choices. Keeping patients informed about inventory management is not relevant to the consent process in medication administration.