Ace the RDA Law & Ethics Challenge 2025 – Smile Your Way to Success!

The correct answer states that a dental assistant should explain procedures prior to treatments, as part of informed consent. This process is vital as it involves informing the patient about what to expect during the procedure, the steps involved, and any potential risks or benefits. Providing this information helps the patient make an informed decision about their care and ensures that they understand the treatment plan.

Informed consent is a key ethical and legal requirement in healthcare, ensuring that patients are actively engaged in their treatment decisions. When a dental assistant takes the time to explain procedures beforehand, it establishes trust and promotes a positive patient experience by reducing anxiety and confusion.

Describing procedures after the treatment has begun can lead to misunderstandings and may leave patients feeling unprepared or anxious about what is happening. Discussing procedures during the billing process may not be appropriate, as the focus should be on payment rather than the patient's treatment. Only explaining procedures if the patient asks can lead to a lack of communication and does not empower the patient to be involved in their own care. Thus, prioritizing explanations as part of the informed consent process is the most effective approach.