Documentation of PROTECTIVE STABILIZATION in the patient record should include each of the following EXCEPT one. Which is the EXCEPTION?

Correct answer: D. The number of teeth to be treated at the appointment

• A. This IS required. The duration of application and the patient's behavioural response must be documented, along with any complications.
• B. This IS required. The indication — the specific behaviour or condition making safe treatment otherwise impossible — must be recorded, together with the alternatives considered.
• C. This IS required. The type of stabilization (active by a person, or passive with a device) must be specified.
• D. CORRECT — this is the EXCEPTION. The NUMBER OF TEETH being treated is part of the treatment record, but it is not an element of the protective-stabilization documentation. That documentation exists to justify a restriction of a patient's freedom of movement, so it records why, what, how long and with whose consent.

Note: Per AAPD guidance, informed consent for protective stabilization must be obtained and documented SEPARATELY from consent for the dental treatment itself, and the parent must be told they may withdraw it. Stabilization is never used for convenience, as punishment, or where a medical condition makes it unsafe.