What is the role of the dental assistant in obtaining informed consent?

The role of the dental assistant in obtaining informed consent is primarily to provide information about the procedure and sedation risks, ensuring that the patient fully understands what is involved. This involves clearly communicating the details of the procedure, the types of sedation used, and any potential risks or benefits associated with the treatment. The dental assistant plays a crucial part in fostering an environment where patients feel comfortable asking questions and discussing their concerns, thereby aiding in their understanding and ultimately ensuring their autonomy in making informed choices regarding their care.

While aspects like budget management or documenting decisions are important in a dental practice setting, they do not directly contribute to informed consent in the same way that patient education does. Assisting in performing the actual procedure pertains to the clinical aspect of patient care, whereas informed consent is fundamentally about communication and mutual understanding between the patient and the healthcare providers.