Which term describes the functions that a professional practitioner can perform?

• A. Scope of Practice
• B. Risk Management
• C. Defamation
• D. Forensic Dentistry

Answer: (A)

The concept being tested is scope of practice—the defined range of duties a licensed professional is allowed to perform under state law and professional standards. This describes what you can do independently, what requires supervision, and what may need additional qualifications. In dental hygiene, the scope of practice covers tasks like patient assessment, charting, prophylaxis, radiographs, fluoride treatments, sealants, and patient education, all within the boundaries set by state regulations to protect patient safety and ensure competent care.

The other terms don’t describe that set of permissible functions: risk management focuses on reducing harm and liability, defamation involves false statements harming someone’s reputation, and forensic dentistry deals with the use of dental evidence in legal proceedings. Therefore, the term that best fits is scope of practice.