Which area of practice is within the scope of DH for obtaining informed consent?

Informed consent is an essential component of dental practice, ensuring that patients are fully aware of the procedures they will undergo, including potential risks and benefits. Within the scope of dental hygiene practice, obtaining informed consent typically involves the dental hygienist working in collaboration and coordination with the dentist. This collaborative approach is crucial because the dentist oversees the overall treatment plan and has the final responsibility for patient care.

The dental hygienist communicates procedures and gathers patient information while ensuring that the dentist's directives and treatment intentions are respected. This collaborative aspect fosters comprehensive patient care and reinforces the trust between the dental hygienist, the dentist, and the patient.

By working in conjunction with the dentist, the dental hygienist can provide clear information about the procedures to be performed, tailored to the specific treatment plan developed by the dental team. This ensures that the patient’s understanding is both accurate and complete, which is vital for obtaining valid informed consent.

The other options imply different levels of supervision or timing that do not align with the collaborative nature of informed consent. Supervision from a dentist is important, but full autonomy in obtaining informed consent without oversight does not accurately reflect professional expectations and responsibilities. Furthermore, obtaining consent only after treatment completion undermines the very purpose of informed consent, which is to