Mary Floss, with no previous training as a dental assistant, is hired for on-the-job training. Which procedure can she NOT perform?

The determination that Mary Floss cannot expose radiographs on a patient stems from the specific legal and regulatory requirements governing the practice of dental assisting. Radiography involves technical skills and a solid understanding of both radiation safety and anatomy, which typically require formal training and certification.

In many jurisdictions, only those who have completed an accredited program and obtained the necessary licensure or certification are permitted to expose radiographs. This restriction is in place to ensure patient safety, as incorrect exposure can lead to harmful effects from radiation, as well as diagnostic inaccuracies.

Conversely, assisting the dentist during procedures, maintaining patient records, and preparing instruments for use are typically tasks that do not require formal certification and can be part of an on-the-job training experience. These tasks allow for more flexibility in training within the dental office, as they do not directly involve radiographic safety or technical proficiency associated with exposing X-rays.