Job Responsibilities and Duties Flashcards
7 cards from real RDA practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Job Responsibilities and Duties flashcards as text
When seating a patient for a dental procedure, which action should an RDA perform first?
Answer: Review the patient's medical history and update any changes
Reviewing and updating the patient's medical history before seating ensures any contraindications or allergies are identified before treatment begins.
An RDA is responsible for maintaining the dental unit waterlines. What is the primary reason for flushing waterlines at the start of each day?
Answer: To reduce microbial contamination from overnight stagnation
Flushing waterlines each morning reduces microbial biofilm that accumulates during periods of stagnation, protecting patient and staff safety.
Which duty is within the scope of practice for a Registered Dental Assistant in most US states?
Answer: Performing coronal polishing after training and certification
Coronal polishing is a delegable expanded function that RDAs can legally perform in most states after completing required training.
During a procedure, the dentist asks the RDA to transfer instruments using the single-handed transfer technique. Where should the RDA position the instrument for handoff?
Answer: At the exchange zone near the patient's chin
The exchange zone near the patient's chin keeps instrument transfers within the dentist's peripheral vision and reduces movement fatigue.
An RDA notices a patient seems anxious before a procedure. What is the most appropriate initial response?
Answer: Acknowledge the patient's feelings and inform the dentist
Acknowledging anxiety validates the patient's feelings, and informing the dentist allows the team to address it appropriately before and during treatment.
What is an RDA's responsibility regarding informed consent?
Answer: Witnessing the patient's signature on a consent form the dentist has explained
The dentist is responsible for explaining treatment and obtaining consent; the RDA may witness the signature but does not provide the explanation or make clinical judgments.
An RDA is preparing a tray for a composite restoration. Which material should be included for caries removal and cavity preparation?
Answer: High-speed handpiece and burs
A high-speed handpiece with appropriate burs is used during cavity preparation to remove decayed tooth structure before restoration placement.