Tag Archives: patient’s autonomy

Consent – Dental Protection Part 4

Competence

In order both to understand the information provided, and to give the necessary authority for consent, a patient must be competent. “Competence” in this context means the patient’s ability to understand the explanations given, about:

  • The nature and purpose of a particular procedure;
  • Its likely effects and risks; and
  • Any alternative treatment and how these alternatives might compare. Continue reading