What should be included in informed consent for residential pesticide treatments?

• A. Explanation of planned IPM approach, safety precautions, and re-entry information.
• B. Only cost details.
• C. No IPM information necessary.
• D. Only the date of service.

Answer: (B)

Informed consent for residential pesticide treatments should clearly explain what will be done and how safety will be managed. The essential elements include the planned Integrated Pest Management (IPM) approach, which shows how non-chemical methods, monitoring, thresholds, and any chemical treatments fit together so you understand the overall strategy. It must also spell out safety precautions to protect occupants, pets, and the environment, including what protective measures applicators will take and any steps you need to follow before and after treatment. Re-entry information is crucial as well—how long you and others should stay out, when it’s safe to re-enter, and any post-treatment restrictions. Together, these details enable you to give informed consent by understanding the plan, the safety considerations, and the timing, not just the cost or the service date.