Ace the California RDH Law & Ethics Exam 2026 – Smile Bright and Rule Right!

The correct answer highlights that a dental hygienist can only dispense medications that have been specifically authorized by a dentist. This limitation is in place to ensure that there is oversight and proper clinical judgment involved when it comes to what medications are dispensed, as dental hygienists must work within a framework that prioritizes patient safety and legal compliance.

In practice, this means that while dental hygienists contribute to patient care and may have access to certain medications, they cannot independently make decisions regarding which medications to dispense without the approval of a supervising dentist. This relationship emphasizes the collaborative nature of dental care, where the dentist, with their extensive training, makes the ultimate decisions regarding patient treatment plans, including medication management.

The other options suggest varying degrees of independence in dispensing medications, which do not align with current regulations and the professional scope of practice for dental hygienists. Addressing these alternatives helps clarify that the role of a dental hygienist is supportive, rather than independent, when it comes to medication authority.