July 31, 2012
Process changes for ordering HIV tests
Inpatient:
When ordering in POE, you will be prompted to indicate that you have obtained verbal consent from the patient or provide the name of another provider that obtained verbal consent. POE Prompt for Verbal HIV Testing Consent
Use the current HIV lab requisition. Patient and provider signatures are not required.
Outpatient:
Use the current HIV requisition. Patient and provider signatures are not required.
Please note: we are currently revising the HIV requisition form to reflect the fact that written consent is no longer required. Until changes are implemented, clinicians obtaining the patient’s VERBAL consent for HIV testing should document the fact that the patient has agreed to HIV testing in the patient’s medical record.
As with any clinical test, it is good practice to document why the test is being ordered.
Exception: ALL Occupational Health exposures (Inpatient and Outpatient) will require the current lab slip/consent form and will still need both MD and patient signatures on it. No changes for now.
For the full MGH/MGPO advisory: HIV Consent Advisory
See also: