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
Which document governs an RDA's legal scope of practice in the United States?
Answer: The Dental Practice Act of the state in which they work
Each state's Dental Practice Act defines the procedures RDAs are legally permitted to perform within that jurisdiction.
An RDA is responsible for preparing amalgam. After trituration, the amalgam should be tested for the correct consistency by:
Answer: Squeezing it; it should feel smooth and not crumble or stick excessively
Properly triturated amalgam should have a smooth, uniform texture that can be condensed without crumbling or being overly sticky.
During a dental appointment, a patient reports sudden chest pain and shortness of breath. What should the RDA do immediately?
Answer: Stop the procedure, summon the dentist, and call 911 if directed
Chest pain and dyspnea are signs of a potential cardiac emergency; stopping treatment and activating emergency services per office protocol is the correct response.
An RDA discovers a sharps container is three-quarters full. What is the correct action?
Answer: Seal and replace it with a new container immediately
OSHA requires sharps containers to be sealed and replaced when they reach the fill line (typically three-quarters full) to prevent needlestick injuries.
What is the RDA's role when a patient has a latex allergy and requires dental treatment?
Answer: Ensure all latex-containing products are removed from the operatory before treatment
A latex allergy protocol requires removing all latex-containing items—gloves, dam, tubing—from the operatory to prevent anaphylactic reactions.
Which action demonstrates proper four-handed dentistry technique during an anterior composite procedure?
Answer: The RDA controls the suction and maintains the mirror retraction while the dentist operates
In four-handed dentistry, the RDA continuously manages suction and tissue retraction so the dentist can focus without interruption.
An RDA is setting up for a patient who requires antibiotic premedication. When should the antibiotic ideally be taken?
Answer: 30 to 60 minutes before the procedure
AHA guidelines recommend antibiotic premedication be taken 30–60 minutes before the dental procedure to achieve adequate serum levels during treatment.