Medico-legal aspects M14

Question 1

Who regulates all aspects of dentistry to ensure patients are protected?

Answer 1

The General Dental Council

Question 2

Name the two documents which the GDC make reference to, which give guidance and recommendations for those using conscious sedation.

Answer 2

The conscious decision - the department of health

Conscious sedation in the provision of dental care - the standing dental advisory committee

Question 3

What areas must be considered when providing dental treatment using conscious sedation?

Answer 3

consent, maintaining confidentiality, negligence & accusations of assault

Question 4

Name two types of consent.

Answer 4

Expressed & Implied

Question 5

Under exceptional circumstances patient information can be disclosed without prior consent of the patient. List three examples.

Answer 5

In the patient’s best interest, in the interest of the general public, If there is a risk that a crime may be committed.

Question 6

Give three examples of how patients’ information can be protected

Answer 6

Computers are password protected, conversations about patients should be held in private spaces, and sensitive telephone calls should be done in private.

Question 7

How can clinicians prevent allegations of assault?

Answer 7

Allegations of assault can be made by patients at any time; therefore, it is essential the
clinician is not left alone in the surgery with a patient at any time. Having a chaperone is
essential to prevent the patient’s word against the clinician.