What should a dental hygienist do if a patient refuses treatment?

When a patient refuses treatment, the most appropriate course of action for a dental hygienist is to document the refusal and communicate it to the supervising dentist. This is important for several reasons.

First, documentation serves as an official record of the patient's decision, which is crucial for liability and legal reasons. It protects both the hygienist and the practice by providing clear evidence of the patient's choice to refuse treatment. Documentation should include the specific treatment that was refused and any relevant details regarding the conversation that took place.

Second, communicating this information to the supervising dentist ensures that the entire dental team is aware of the patient's refusal. This allows the dentist to follow up, provide further information, and, if appropriate, address any concerns the patient may have about the treatment. The dentist can then make an informed decision about how to proceed with the patient's care.

This approach respects patient autonomy, aligning with ethical standards in healthcare where the patient's right to make their own decisions is upheld. It also maintains a collaborative environment within the dental team to ensure that the patient's overall health and preferences are considered in their care plan.