ASK™
Pediatric assent
- AAppropriate explanation
- SSeek willingness
- KKeep dignity
What it solves
ASK is the pediatric assent framework. It separates consent, which the guardian gives, from assent, the child's own affirmative agreement when developmentally appropriate.
When to use it
Use ASK before and during any handling, especially undressing, transfers, and transitions, even when the guardian has fully consented.
In practice
Even when consent is covered by the guardian, the child still has a voice. Explain what you are about to do in a way the child can understand, seek their willingness rather than override it, and protect their dignity throughout.
ASK™ is one of 14 frameworks in the Playbook
Read the full treatment in Chapter 4 of the Pediatric PT Playbook (Safety, Consent, and Professional Responsibility), with the cases, scripts, and documentation to match.
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