Cosmetic Nurses Association: Informed Consent

Purpose
The purpose of this guideline is to detail the role and minimum requirements of telehealth consultations for cosmetic nurses.

Scope
This guideline is applicable to cosmetic nurses providing non-surgical cosmetic treatments within Australia.

Guideline
Telehealth consultations must comply with the guidelines on cosmetic medical and surgical procedures published by the Medical Board. Under these guidelines a mandatory consultation must occur before a medical practitioner prescribes schedule 4 cosmetic injectables, either in person or by video consultation.

It is expected the telehealth consultation comprise of:

  • A formal handover from the nurse to the medical practitioner: introducing the patient, their medical history including allergies, medications and any medical conditions.
  • Nurse to explain details of the current treatment plan, including future treatment plans.
  • Nurse to explain details on if the patient has received a similar treatment in the past including any adverse reactions to previous treatments.
  • Nurse to ensure informed consent is obtained prior to telehealth consult.
  • Nurse to ensure medical practitioner speaks to patient via telehealth and allows patient to ask any questions of the medical practitioner.

References

Medical Board of Australia (MBA) (2016). FAQs – Guidelines for registered medical practitioners who perform cosmetic medical and surgical procedures. https://www.medicalboard.gov.au/Codes-Guidelines-Policies/FAQ/FAQ-guidelines-for-cosmetic-procedures.aspx