Welcome

The Caldicott principles guide health and care teams in handling confidential patient information: why it is used, whether it is necessary, who needs access, and how patients are informed.

This course is for dental nurses working in UK dental practice. It concentrates on practical judgement at the chairside and front desk: conversations with patients and relatives, clinical records, referrals, reception queries, team handovers, and how to respond when a colleague asks, "Can I share this?"

Why This Course Matters

• Dental nurses handle sensitive information every day: medical histories, radiographs, treatment notes, referrals, costs, complaints, and contact details.
• Appropriate sharing supports care: withholding necessary information can put patients at risk.
• Proper protection prevents harm: unnecessary disclosure damages trust, dignity and safety.
• Dental nurses often advise others: reception staff and junior team members may look to you for clear, practical guidance before escalating.

How This Course Will Help You

By the end of the course you will be able to apply the Caldicott principles as a straightforward decision aid, give practical guidance to colleagues about everyday information-handling questions, and recognise when to pause, check local policy, or escalate to the appropriate person.