To fill out and sign a patient work excuse, what must an RDA do?

To fill out and sign a patient work excuse, it is essential for a Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) to receive authorization from the dentist. This requirement ensures that the information provided on the work excuse is accurate and reflects the dentist's professional judgment regarding the patient's condition. The dentist is ultimately responsible for the patient's care and documentation, thus allowing them to authorize the RDA to complete this task ensures that the work excuse aligns with the patient's treatment plan and clinical status.

While it may seem logical for an RDA to independently fill out such forms, the collaborative nature of dental practice necessitates that any documentation related to patient care and absence from work must be endorsed by the supervising dentist. Consulting with the patient is important in practice, but it does not replace the need for the dentist’s authorization. Completing training on patient documentation is beneficial for overall competency; however, the crucial aspect of signing off on work excuses specifically hinges on the dentist’s approval.