Exam Pass Notes

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Valid Consent

• Consent must be voluntary, informed, and given by a person who has capacity for the specific decision.
• Consent is an ongoing process and may be changed or withdrawn at any time before or during treatment.
• A signature documents the discussion but does not substitute for evidence that the patient understood the information and made a choice.
• GDC guidance requires written consent for conscious sedation and for general anaesthesia.

The Dental Nurse Role

• Dental nurses assist the consent process by recognising uncertainty, pressure, distress, communication barriers, or signs of withdrawal.
• They should refer clinical questions to the dentist and avoid giving explanations beyond their competence.
• They can arrange interpreters, provide accessible information, ensure privacy, and allow extra time when needed.
• When consent appears unclear, they should raise concerns calmly and clearly with appropriate staff.

Capacity, Children, and Records

• Capacity is specific to the decision and can change over time.
• Support decision-making before concluding a person lacks capacity.
• Children and young people should be involved according to their age, maturity, understanding, and the applicable legal framework.
• Records should be made promptly, be factual and respectful, and clearly document concerns, any support provided, handovers, and outcomes.