Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) Law and Ethics Practice Exam

Does completing a CE course allow the attendee to use what they have learned in practice?

1. Yes, automatically

2. No, without proper scope or permit

3. Yes, if supervised by a licensed dentist

4. No, it requires a certificate

The correct answer is: No, without proper scope or permit

Completing a continuing education (CE) course does not inherently permit a dental assistant to implement what they have learned without adhering to specific guidelines, which is why the correct answer highlights the need for proper scope or permit. Dental assistants work within regulated scopes of practice that require them to operate under the supervision of licensed professionals, typically a dentist. Therefore, even if a dental assistant completes a CE course, they must ensure that the education received aligns with their current scope of practice and any applicable regulations. This means that practical application of new skills or knowledge might require additional permissions or licensing, rather than being automatically permissible. The expectations set forth by regulatory bodies ensure that patient safety remains a top priority and that assistants are adequately qualified to perform any new duties learned in CE courses. Hence, the compliance with proper scope or permit is a crucial consideration in the dental field, reinforcing the importance of regulatory adherence when applying newly acquired knowledge or skills.