Which term describes actions to prevent financial loss or possible legal actions (e.g., record keeping and informed consent)?

• A. Risk Management
• B. Libel
• C. Jurisprudence
• D. Insurance Fraud

Answer: (A)

Risk management means taking proactive steps to prevent financial loss or legal trouble in a dental practice by reducing exposure to claims and penalties. It involves thorough record keeping, obtaining and documenting informed consent, following established procedures, and staying compliant with laws and board rules. By keeping accurate charts, documenting treatment plans and communications, and maintaining proper safety and privacy practices, a hygienist helps protect both the patient and the practice from misunderstandings and liability. The other terms don’t describe a comprehensive approach to preventing liability: libel is false written statements harming someone's reputation, jurisprudence is the study of law, and insurance fraud is illegal misrepresentation to obtain insurance benefits.