NDA Journal 14 • Risks of the treatment. It is important that the patient receives enough information concerning the risks that a reasonable person in the patient’s position would be “likely to attach significance” as to the risk. However, remote risks do not need to be discussed. • Treatment alternatives. Dentists need to discuss with their patients’ alternatives to the proposed treatment and also the risks and consequences of the alternative treatment. The alternative treatment needs to be discussed even if they are more dangerous than the proposed treatment. • The option of doing nothing. There is always the option of doing nothing. As such, an outgrowth of informed consent is the concept of informed refusal. The patient must be informed of the possible consequences of refusing treatment or diagnostic procedures. • A consent form needs to be signed by the patient. A consent form is a simple document which confirms that the patient has knowingly consented to a particular treatment. This indicates that a discussion between the dentist and patient has taken place in which the treatment, its risks and benefits and alternatives have been discussed. This informed consent form is merely evidence that this discussion took place. Either the dentist or the staff must ensure that it is signed and dated by the patient. A copy should be placed in the patient’s chart and a copy given to the patient. Also, it is a guide to use so that the dentist fully and clearly explains the risks, benefits, and treatment alternatives to their patients. • A consent form preferably should be signed by the dentist. Signing the consent form adds another layer to managing risk. The ritual of signing consummates a communication relationship between the patient and their dentist. This should give the dentist a moment of pause before delegating this important duty. Conclusion Informing your patients of the risks, benefits and alternatives for their proposed treatment is not only helpful but a necessary element in modern dentist-patient relationships. By increasing the role of the patient in deciding what treatment is more appropriate, the patient benefits. The dentist also benefits by allowing and encouraging the patient to accept more autonomous responsibility for themselves and therefore reducing the dentist’s liability risk.0 Featured Article »
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