Three types of consent forms that a dental hygienist should be familiar with
Three types of consent forms that a dental hygienist should be familiar with
Written consent
It’s a piece of paper unless its read, understood and its appreciated. Written consent form is signed by a witness (dental hygienist and the client or his/her representative). The value of obtaining a written consent is to prove that a consent was obtained if a challenge arise.
A written consent is not a complete defense when problems arise.It is required an informed consent to make sure that the clinician is on the safe side.
Informed consent form
Involves the meeting of minds between client and clinician. Consists in informing the client regarding the findings, and gives the opportunity to the client to make his own decisions regarding the treatment plan suggested by the clinician. It’s the clinicians duty to provide information and make recommendations that will enable the client to make informed choices.
Verbal consent
If a written consent is not obtained from the clinician than a verbal consent is enough as long as it is written in the treatment records in details.
Determination of capacity and substitute decision makers role in treating a dental client
Determination of capacity
All clients are assumed to be capable of decision making therefore capable of signing a written consent. When there are reasons to doubt the capability of the patient then an assessment of a client is made to assure that he is really in able to give a consent.
Substitute decision makers
When a client results incapable from the assessment then a third party is required to .give consent. These third parties are considered substitute decision makers. Substitute decision makers include: relatives or official institutions that deal with this situations like The Public Guardian and Trustee.
I dont know i never read the consent form . Its good to know the differences . especially if you want to sue the dentist
just kidding