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If a new clinical dental assistant lacks the EFDA credential for a specific intraoral task, what should they do?

  1. Proceed with the task to gain experience

  2. Inform the dentist of their lack of appropriate credential

  3. Ask a colleague to help with the task

  4. Ignore the situation and continue working

The correct answer is: Inform the dentist of their lack of appropriate credential

A clinical dental assistant who does not have the Expanded Functions Dental Assistant (EFDA) credential should prioritize communication regarding their qualifications. Informing the dentist of their lack of appropriate credential is essential because it maintains professional integrity and patient safety. Without the required credentials, the assistant might not fully understand the procedural nuances necessary to perform the task effectively or safely. Operating without the necessary credential could lead to complications that might not only risk patient outcomes but also expose the dental office to legal and ethical issues. Transparency in this situation is crucial; it enables the dentist to provide guidance or assign the task to an appropriately qualified individual, ensuring that patient care standards are upheld. Following proper protocols helps build a trustworthy working environment where safety and professionalism are prioritized.