The informed consent process is a nondelegable duty that physicians, dentists, and other practitioners must perform through discussions with patients. Healthcare providers should obtain consent from patients — or in certain cases, patients' authorized representatives — for proposed surgeries, procedures, or treatments that patients will undergo.
Read moreInformed consent is a general principle of law that imposes a duty on healthcare providers to disclose to patients the information they need to intelligently make healthcare-related decisions. The basis of informed consent centers on the principle of autonomy, which recognizes an individual's right to make decisions regarding his/her healthcare.
Read morePatient anxiety or fear related to medical or dental treatment can be problematic and concerning in various ways. These fears may manifest as noncompliance with treatment protocols or appointments schedules, behavioral issues, or — in extreme cases — medical emergencies.
Read morePreparing for medical emergencies requires time and resources, but the results can prove significant. When a medical emergency occurs, healthcare providers and staff members must be ready to quickly implement their emergency response plan.
Read morePreparation is an essential element of emergency preparedness for healthcare practices and facilities. One important aspect of preparing for medical emergencies is procuring and maintaining appropriate equipment and supplies (including medications). Medical and dental professional organizations and emergency preparedness literature generally recommend that office practices maintain at least basic emergency equipment and supplies.
Read moreMedical emergencies — such as cardiac arrest, loss of consciousness, allergic reactions, and respiratory distress — can occur anywhere, including healthcare offices and facilities. Although some medical emergencies are inevitable, others can potentially be avoided through careful patient evaluation and assessment.
Read moreA number of risk management strategies can help healthcare practitioners manage difficult or noncompliant patients who are under their care. But what about new patients? Initial consultations with new patients present practitioners with a unique opportunity to identify potential signs of noncompliant or difficult behavior.
Read moreThe patient was a 76-year-old male with uncontrolled hypertension and a complex medical and surgical history, including cardiovascular disease with myocardial infarction, hypertension, elevated cholesterol levels, diabetes, gastroesophageal reflux disease, stent procedures, and colon resection.
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