Ethics & Law · single question

A pediatric patient arrives with their grandmother, and no previously signed consent form exists. Who should sign the informed consent?

  1. The grandmother can sign if she has legal guardianship or written parental authorization
  2. The patient (minor child)
  3. Proceed without consent if the grandmother is present
  4. Reschedule the appointment until a parent is available
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Correct answer: A. The grandmother can sign if she has legal guardianship or written parental authorization

A grandmother CAN sign informed consent IF she has legal guardianship or written parental authorization to consent for the child. If neither applies, the dentist should contact the parents. A minor child cannot consent for treatment. Rescheduling is appropriate if consent cannot be obtained and treatment is elective. For emergencies, implied consent applies. This tests understanding of consent hierarchy.

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