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Informed Consent Process — ORE Part 1 MCQ

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ModerateBehavioural Sciences & EthicsInformed Consent ProcessORE Part 1

During a consent discussion for a dental procedure, a patient with capacity asks, “What would you recommend, doctor?” What is the most appropriate response under the Montgomery principle?

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Correct answer: BExplain the reasonable options, material risks and benefits, give your recommendation, and support the patient's decision

Explanation lettering: B = shown as A · A = shown as B · D = shown as C · C = shown as D

A is correct. Montgomery requires a patient-centred dialogue: the patient should be informed about reasonable options and the risks and benefits material to them, then supported to decide. A request for a recommendation is appropriate to answer; it does not permit paternalistic decision-making. The GDC specifically includes discussion of treatment options, risks, benefits and the dentist’s recommended option within valid consent. B and E wrongly substitute the clinician’s preference for informed choice. C wrongly withholds professional support. D is unnecessary: a second opinion may be appropriate in selected circumstances, but it is not required before the treating dentist can conduct a valid consent discussion.

Reference: General Dental Council, Standards for the Dental Team — Principle 3: Obtain valid consent, current web guidance. https://standards.gdc-uk.org/pages/principle3/principle3