What does informed consent in health care primarily ensure?

Informed consent in healthcare primarily ensures that a client agrees to treatment options after being fully informed about the nature of the treatment, its risks, benefits, and alternatives. This process respects the patient's autonomy and right to make decisions regarding their own healthcare. By ensuring that patients understand what they are consenting to, informed consent promotes trust in the patient-provider relationship and emphasizes the importance of patient participation in their own health care decisions. This foundational aspect of medical ethics safeguards patients from unwarranted procedures and empowers them to take an active role in their health management.