INFORMED CONSENT FOR ULTRASOUND
Your physician has requested that you undergo a diagnostic procedure known as an ultrasound. Simply stated, this procedure involves the transmission of sound waves reflected off your womb and your fetus, which will be monitored and recorded to obtain information concerning your pregnancy. This test is believed to carry with it very little risk to you or your fetus.
The standard ultrasound takes approximately 10-30 minutes to perform and may provide information concerning placenta location, fetal position, multiple gestation, approximate gestational age, and the possible presence of gross fetal malformations. This test, however is not definitive for the absence of fetal malformations, and despite normal interpretation of the test, some babies are born with anomalies not identified by the examiner during the ultrasound study. Thus, although ultrasonography is a helpful diagnostic tool, it does not absolutely determine the absence of fetal defects. This type of exam is also done prior to performing genetic amniocentesis.
Should you have any questions concerning ultrasonography, discuss them with your referring physician before undergoing the procedure. You are requested to sign this document prior to the performance of this exam, thereby acknowledgement that you have read and have understood the information contained herein, and have given an informed consent to this procedure, and are aware of the risks involved.