Final answer:
Dental Assistants are permitted to do tasks like preparing patients, taking X-rays, basic lab functions, and clerical work; however, they are limited to non-invasive procedures and must follow state laws.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question concerns which tasks are permitted for a Dental Assistant (DA) to perform when a Dental and Dental Specialists (DDS) is not present in a dental facility. While a DDS is not available, a DA is often allowed by state regulations to carry out a variety of duties that do not require the direct supervision or physical presence of a dentist. These tasks may include preparing the patient for treatment, taking dental X-rays, performing basic laboratory functions, and managing clerical duties.
Examples of tasks a DA may perform include preliminary assessments such as reviewing the patient's medical history, taking blood pressure and pulse, providing postoperative care instructions, and sterilizing equipment. It is crucial for a DA to comply with state dental laws and regulations, which vary and dictate the scope of practices a DA can perform unsupervised. A DA should never perform tasks that are explicitly reserved for dental hygienists or licensed dentists, such as diagnosing, creating treatment plans, or performing invasive procedures.