When to Escalate

When to Escalate forms part of meeting I 1.7. For dental nurses, this means recognising when a discussion or transaction should involve a dentist, manager, complaints lead or safeguarding lead.

Communication in dental nursing is patient-safety work. It supports consent, dignity, reassurance, accurate records, handover, prevention and escalation.

These situations often arise in routine moments: a patient who appears uncertain, a receptionist asking for guidance, a dentist working quickly, a trainee needing feedback, a message from a patient, a handover, or a colleague unsure about raising a concern. Interpersonal skill is responding with care, clarity and sound professional judgement.

Practical markers

• Notice: what the patient, colleague, situation or system is signalling.
• Choose: a communication method, team route or escalation step appropriate to the context.
• Respect: role boundaries, confidentiality, dignity, cultural needs and emotional impact.
• Check: understanding, responsibility, handover and whether the next person has the information they need.
• Follow up: record actions, give feedback, discuss in supervision or use formal concern-raising when required.

Useful language can be simple: "Can I check how the patient would prefer us to explain this before we continue?" This is calm and professional while giving the team a clear reason to pause, clarify or escalate.

SPF behaviour links

Appropriate and effective communication in professional discussions and transactions helps dental nurses protect patient dignity, maintain team trust and deliver safe care.