5.2 Informed Consent—Continued
It is important that the dentist inform the parent about the nature of the technique to be used, its risks and benefits, and any alternative techniques. Information should be provided about the diagnosis, the prognosis, the reasons for treatment, the nature of the treatment, and alternatives. Showing the parent and the child a photograph or a videotape of the procedure illustrating the technique that will be used may increase understanding or prompt questions. All questions must be answered to the parents’ satisfaction.
For informed consent, the following conditions must be met:
- The oral health professional must actively engage the parent and the child (if the child is able to understand) in a verbal exchange to clarify issues, ask/answer questions, and verify the parent’s and the child’s comprehension. This should be done in the family’s primary language, with the assistance of a trained interpreter, if needed.
- The oral health professional may not use deception or coercion to gain the parent’s consent.
- The parent making the decision must be considered “competent” to understand the information and to make a decision.
- The parent must clearly communicate his or her choices.
The parent has a right to know which option the dentist recommends. The dentist is not obligated to present options considered unacceptable.
A signature on a form does not necessarily constitute informed consent. Informed consent implies (1) providing information to the parent and (2) obtaining the parent’s consent before administering treatment.
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