Patient Safety & LawQuestion 89 of 100
A patient asks the assistant, "Do you think this dark spot on my x-ray is a cavity?" What is the appropriate response?
a.Give the patient a definitive answer based on what the image appears to show
b.Explain that the dentist will review and interpret the radiograph, and offer to relay the patient's question
c.Tell the patient the finding is definitely nothing to worry about
d.Recommend a filling and schedule the appointment
Explanation
Diagnosing conditions, interpreting radiographic findings for the patient, and prescribing treatment fall outside the dental assistant's scope of practice and belong to the dentist. Offering a definitive answer, reassuring the patient that nothing is wrong, or recommending a restoration all constitute diagnosis or treatment planning. Referring the question to the dentist keeps the assistant within legal scope while still serving the patient.
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