What best defines express consent?

Express consent is best defined as consent that is explicitly granted, either orally or in writing. This type of consent involves the individual clearly communicating their agreement to a particular action or decision, leaving no room for assumptions or inferences. It is direct and straightforward, ensuring that the person providing consent fully understands what they are agreeing to.

In legal and medical contexts, express consent is important because it verifies that the individual has been adequately informed about the procedure or action they are consenting to, and it protects both the individual and the provider. For example, a patient signing a consent form for surgery is providing express consent by acknowledging that they understand the risks and benefits involved.

The other options do not accurately capture the essence of express consent. Consent inferred from behavior relates more to implicit consent, which can arise from a person's actions rather than their explicit agreement. Similarly, consent applicable only during emergencies refers to a specific context that does not encompass all situations where express consent is relevant. Lastly, consent that does not require full meaning implies a lack of understanding or clarity, which contradicts the fundamental principle of what express consent entails.