Consent and Conservatorship
Before undergoing any dental procedure, a patient must consent for dental treatment. If the patient in not self-conserved, then we will work with the appropriate legal entity to obtain consent, whether it is a Legal Conservator, or other Legally Assigned Delegate. This is critical in order to ensure the best interest of our patient is coordinated with the legal party responsible for their health and welfare.
Please see the explanation of Patient Consent noted on the CA Dental Association website referenced below:
Understanding Consent and Informed Consent
Consent is the act of voluntarily and knowingly agreeing to undergo a specific treatment or intervention. Informed consent goes a step further, encompassing the understanding of the risks, benefits, alternatives and potential consequences associated with the proposed treatment. While consent acknowledges the patient's willingness, informed consent recognizes the patient's right to make an autonomous decision based on complete and understandable information.
The Significance of Consent: Body Autonomy and Patient Rights
Consent is a fundamental aspect of ethical health care practice and is rooted in the principles of autonomy and patient rights. Respecting an individual's body autonomy means acknowledging their right to make decisions about their own health care, including the right to accept or refuse treatment. For nonverbal adults, ensuring consent is obtained upholds their dignity and recognizes their right to be fully involved in the decision-making process as much as possible.
Who Can Legally Provide Consent?
When adults are unable to provide consent themselves, it becomes necessary to identify who can legally act as their representative. The specific laws and regulations governing this may vary between jurisdictions. Generally, a legally authorized representative, such as a guardian, parent or health care proxy, can provide consent on behalf of the nonverbal adult. It is essential for dental professionals to familiarize themselves with local laws and procedures to ensure compliance and the protection of both the patient and the dental practice.
HOSPITAL DENTISTRY CONSENT
When a patient has dental treatment provided in an hospital setting, we will require consent forms signed specific to UCLA Santa Monica and our practice. Please find the current UCLA Surgical consent forms below. UCLA Santa Monica’s Anesthesia Department will also call and obtain verbal consent for the anesthesia. At that time, they will go over the process and risks of anesthesia in an effort to ensure that consent is provided with information pertinent to the decision-making process.
UCLA Consent for Surgery or Special Diagnostic Procedures