If a dental assistant fails to use proper infection control measures, this could lead to what disciplinary action?

Failure to use proper infection control measures in a dental practice can have serious consequences, as it not only endangers the health of patients but also violates professional standards and regulations set forth by governing bodies such as the State Board of Dental Examiners (SBDE). When a dental assistant does not adhere to these protocols, disciplinary actions can be imposed to uphold the integrity of dental practice and ensure patient safety.

A reprimand or fines from the SBDE is a typical disciplinary measure for such infractions. This serves multiple purposes: it holds the dental assistant accountable for their actions, underscores the importance of infection control in dentistry, and acts as a deterrent to similar behavior in the future. The SBDE has the authority to impose these sanctions since public health is at stake, and maintaining rigorous infection control practices is critical for preventing the spread of infectious diseases.

In contrast, voluntary probation is generally an option for professionals seeking to improve their practice, but it is not the automatic consequence of failing to follow infection control protocols. Immediate license renewal doesn’t apply as a disciplinary action since it implies that no wrongdoing occurred. Lastly, transferring to administrative duties may not address the underlying problem of non-compliance with infection control standards and is not a recognized form of disciplinary action by the