Which of the following describes duties that can be delegated to a dental assistant?

The duties that can be delegated to a dental assistant are those that act within the scope of sound dental judgment. This means that the tasks assigned to dental assistants should align with their training, skills, and the regulations set forth by the dental practice and the state board. Delegating responsibilities is essential for maintaining patient safety and ensuring that procedures are conducted by qualified individuals who understand the nuances of dental care.

Tasks assigned to dental assistants should not require extensive medical training or specialization that goes beyond their level of expertise. Additionally, while some duties might not require direct supervision, they still need to adhere to the principles of sound dental judgment. This ensures that the quality of care remains high and that services provided are appropriate and effective for the patient’s needs.

Consequently, options involving complex surgical procedures or any function requiring advanced medical training do not fall within the scope of what a dental assistant can safely perform, making them unsuitable choices. It is primarily through adhering to the guidelines of sound dental judgment that dental assistants can effectively contribute to a dental practice while supporting dentists and optimizing patient care.