Practice abstract
British Dental Journal 200, 18 - 21 (2006)
Published online: 14 January 2006 | doi:10.1038/sj.bdj.4813118
Subject Category: Law and ethics
The role of competence and capacity in relation to consent for treatment in adult patients
S Henwood1, M A Wilson2 & I Edwards3
- Describes some of the difficulties encountered in obtaining valid consent for treatment.
- Helps to clarify the terms used such as 'capacity' and 'competence'.
Abstract
Obtaining informed consent for dental and medical treatment is a fundamental ethical and legal responsibility for all clinicians. It is an opportunity for patients to have healthcare that is based on their informed choice. The assessment of a patient's competence is an essential part of the consent process and clinicians need to be aware that patients can be misunderstood and wrongly deemed incompetent. This paper aims to aid the clinician to better understand the concept of patient competency and capacity in relation to obtaining valid consent.
- S. Henwood, Specialist Registrar in Orthodontics, Cumberland Infirmary, Carlisle.
- M. A. Wilson, Consultant in Restorative Dentistry, University Dental Hospital of Manchester, Higher Cambridge Street, Manchester M15 6FH.
- I. Edwards, SHO Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Wythenshaw Hospital, Manchester.
Correspondence to: S Henwood1 e-mail: margaret.wilson@manchester.ac.uk
