Informed Consent
I hereby request and consent to receive acupuncture and other treatments within the scope of Chinese Medicine at Bribie Acupuncture. As with all healthcare treatments, it is important to understand the potential risks and benefits associated with traditional Chinese medicine before proceeding.
Acupuncture involves the insertion of fine, sterile needles into specific points on the body to relieve pain or support the body’s natural regulatory functions. During treatment, you may experience mild sensations such as a prick upon needle insertion, tingling, aching, soreness, numbness, fullness, distension, pressure, heaviness, or warmth. These sensations are normal and vary depending on the individual, the condition being treated, and its severity.
If at any time you experience discomfort or sharp pain that does not subside, please inform your practitioner immediately. Adjustments or removal of the needle may be necessary to ensure your comfort. Minor bleeding or bruising may occur, which is typically harmless and may even offer diagnostic value.
On rare occasions, you may feel lightheaded, dizzy, faint, mildly nauseous, chilled, sweaty, or anxious. These symptoms, known as “needle shock,” are temporary and often related to low blood sugar, fatigue, or anxiety. Please alert your practitioner if this occurs so they can provide appropriate care.
Following treatment, it is common to feel relaxed, energized, or occasionally tired. Pain relief may be immediate or develop over the following days. In some cases, symptoms may briefly worsen before improving, which can be a normal part of the healing process. As individual responses to treatment vary, outcomes cannot be guaranteed. If you have any concerns after your treatment or experience unusual symptoms, please contact the clinic. If you experience chest pain, shortness of breath, or excessive sweating after treatment, seek immediate medical attention.
Although acupuncture is generally very safe, rare but serious risks include nerve damage, infection, or organ puncture (including pneumothorax). Bribie Acupuncture mitigates these risks by using sterile, single-use needles and maintaining a clean, safe clinical environment. While this document outlines major known risks, other side effects may occur.
Confidentiality
Bribie Acupuncture complies with all relevant State and Commonwealth privacy laws. Your personal and health information will be securely stored and only disclosed when legally required.
Please inform the clinical staff if you are pregnant or suspect you may be. While the clinical team will use their best judgment to provide safe and effective care, it is not always possible to foresee every risk or complication. I understand that results cannot be guaranteed, and I trust the clinical staff to make treatment decisions in my best interest based on available information at the time.
I understand that both clinical and administrative staff may review my patient records and test results. All information will remain confidential and will not be released without my written consent.
By signing below, I confirm that I have read (or had read to me) this informed consent, understand the potential risks and benefits of acupuncture and related procedures, and have had the opportunity to ask questions. I consent to treatment for my current condition and for any future conditions for which I may seek care.