law & ethics scenarios

Question 1

What types of consent are there?

Answer 1

Implied, written or verbal.

Question 2

Explain what negligence is and what must be proved for a case to ensue with respect to dental care.

Answer 2

Negligence - failure to exercise reasonable care in one’s professional capacity.

For negligence to be proved, it must be shown the dentist has a duty of care to this patient and that there was a breach of this resulting in damage to the patient.

Question 3

Explain how an NHS complaints system should be set up.

Question 4

When employing a dental hygienist, which documents would you wish to see to enable them to work in your practice?

Answer 4

1. GDC annual practicing certificate.
2. Current membership of a dental defence organisation.
3. Any post-quali certificates.
4. Evidence of BLS skills within the last 12 months.
5. Evidence of hep B immunisation.
6. Evidence of clear criminal record.

Question 5

If an 11 year old attends with her aunt to an emergency appointment having fractured her UL1, how would you explain to the aunt the issues surrounding consent?

Answer 5

1. Explain that Chloe is a minor and the currently accepted age for consent is 16 provided the child has capacity.
2. Every effort should be made to contact the mum.
3. If it is an absolute emergency, treatment can’t be denied and must be within the patient’s best interests.
4. Involve another colleague in the decision so they can confirm tx was absolutely necessary.
5. Tx should be explained to and agreed by the aunt.
6. Aim to only provide reversible tx with anything else only given under parental consent.

Question 6

What is an audit?

Answer 6

A systematic examination of current practice to assess how well an institution/practitioner is performing against set standards.

Allows areas of deficiency to be identified and remedied.

Question 7

Why is an audit done?

Answer 7

• To increase the quality of service/care provided.
• Identify any areas needing improvement.
• Promote good practice.
• Ensures efficiency through better use of time and resources.

Question 8

Explain the audit cycle.

Answer 8

1. Topic chosen
2. Set standard.
3. Collect data.
4. Analyse results against standards.
5. Identify changes to be made.
6. Implement changes.