RDA Law and Ethics Practice Exam 2025 – Complete Prep Guide

Dental professionals must refrain from using controlled substances and alcoholic beverages to avoid impairment because these substances can significantly affect their cognitive and motor skills, which are essential for ensuring patient safety and delivering quality care. Impairment can lead to mistakes during procedures, increased risk of harm to patients, and potential legal ramifications for the professional.

Controlled substances include medications that are regulated by law due to their potential for abuse and addiction. When dental professionals use these substances, even non-medically, it can lead to impaired judgment and decreased performance in their duties. Alcohol can similarly affect a professional's ability to function effectively.

The other options do not encompass the full scope of substances that can impair a dental professional's ability to perform their duties safely. Over-the-counter medications may not necessarily lead to impairment; they can typically be used responsibly without negatively affecting performance. Only prescription medication and illegal substances also restrict the concerns to specific categories rather than acknowledging the broader issue of alcohol and controlled substances. Therefore, the focus on controlled substances and alcoholic beverages is critical for the safety and efficacy of dental care.