RDA Law and Ethics Practice Exam 2026 – Complete Prep Guide

A fiduciary duty in the context of dental assisting refers to a legal obligation that requires the dental assistant to act in the best interest of the patient. This concept emphasizes the trust that patients place in dental professionals to prioritize their health and well-being, over any personal gain or business interests. Such a duty encompasses maintaining confidentiality, obtaining informed consent, and providing care that aligns with the patients’ needs and expectations.

This foundation of trust is crucial in the patient-dental assistant relationship, ensuring that all actions and decisions made by the dental assistant are with the patient's best interests in mind. This obligation reinforces ethical standards within the dental profession, fostering a safe and supportive environment for patients seeking care.

Other choices do not accurately capture the essence of fiduciary duty. A focus on promoting business interests would conflict with the best interests of the patient, while performing procedures is merely one aspect of the role and does not encompass the overarching ethical obligations. A casual agreement implies a lack of seriousness or legal repercussions, which does not align with the seriousness of the fiduciary relationship between healthcare providers and their patients.