Question

A kid comes into the dental practice, the parent left the office, and the DH did the prophy on the kid. When they realized the kid needs x-rays, the DH decides not to do x-rays because the parent was not present. Why did she decide this?

a) Parental consent is required
b) X-rays are unnecessary for children
c) DH is afraid of the child
d) Billing issues

Answer 1

The dental hygienist did not perform x-rays on the child because parental consent is legally and ethically required for medical procedures on minors, which includes exposure to radiation.

Step-by-step explanation:

The dental hygienist (DH) decided not to perform x-rays on the child without the parent present because parental consent is required. Although parents can provide consent on behalf of their minors for medical procedures, children are not legally competent to give consent for themselves. This is crucial in healthcare, including dental care, to ensure that parents are aware and agree to the necessary treatments and procedures for their children.

Parental consent is particularly important for x-rays because they involve exposure to radiation, and parents should be informed to weigh the benefits and potential risks. The decision made by the DH was in line with ethical and legal standards that safeguard the child's welfare and adhere to medical consent regulations.