Title: Informed Consent
Course: DEH 2811 Ethics > Section: Module 4 - Informed Consent

Introduction

In this module, informed consent will be examined. The criteria needed for a consent to be considered informed, along with the exceptions for needing an informed consent will be presented. The concept of informed consent relates directly to patient autonomy and this relationship will be evaluated. Dental hygiene patients may choose to refuse treatment; however, even the refusal must be informed.

The dental hygiene student should have a thorough understanding of informed consent. If students do not understand this concept, he or she may violate the patients’ autonomy and may violate laws pertaining to patient treatment. Informed consent is vital to the study of ethics.

Objectives

Upon completion of this module, the student will be able to:

- Discuss the criteria for informed consent and informed refusal.
- Relate conditions for not obtaining informed consent.
- Describe how autonomy supports the ethical and legal mandate of informed consent in health care.

Readings & Resources

Required textbook reading:  (Chapter #3, pp. 30-48).  Ethics, Jurisprudence, and Practice Management in Dental Hygiene, Vickie Kimbrough-Walls & Charla Lautar, 3rd Edition.

Assignments and Activities

- Post to the Module 4 Discussion Board.
- Complete the Module 4 Reflective Assignment.
- Complete the Module 4 Quiz.