Can I use aids such as videotapes and CD-ROM presentations to make the process less time consuming?
Absolutely. There are many ways to inform and educate patients, including the use of CD-ROMs, pamphlets, professional or self-made videos, placards, and discussions with staff members. Regardless of what methods are used, it remains the ultimate responsibility of the dentist to be certain the patient understands what has been presented and to answer any remaining questions. Always ask both the patient and the parent, “Do you have any questions about the information you have been given or about the proposed treatment?” Whenever adjunct aids are used, their use should be documented in the patient’s record. This can easily be done with abbreviations or short notations, such as “Pt. and mother viewed ortho tape #3″ or “Pt’s father given AAO pamphlet #12-B.” In this way, you can refer back to the tape or pamphlet if questions arise in the future. It also serves to document your education of the party granting consent. Keep in mind that an informed consent form is also an excellent tool for
