A deaf patient comes to the office with a family member. The family member cannot legally serve as the interpreter for consent. Who should obtain consent from a patient who cannot hear?

Correct answer: D. A certified interpreter or the family member

• A. The dental assistant is not a qualified interpreter and should not serve in this role.
• B. Another dentist cannot serve as the interpreter — this does not resolve the communication barrier.
• C. While the family member can assist, the question asks about who should facilitate consent — a certified interpreter is preferred, but the family member is the answer from the options given.
• D. Correct. A certified sign language interpreter should ideally be used. If not available, a family member may serve as interpreter for consent — with the understanding that professional interpreters are preferred. The family member is the best available option from those listed.