California RDH Law and Ethics Exam Complete Practice Test

The primary purpose of maintaining patient records in dental hygiene is to ensure continuity of care and protect patient safety. Comprehensive and accurate patient records play a vital role in documenting a patient's dental history, treatment plans, and any ongoing care that they require. This ensures that any dental professional who treats the patient in the future has access to essential information regarding prior treatments and specific needs.

By preserving detailed records, dental hygienists can provide consistent and informed care, reducing the risk of errors and enhancing patient outcomes. Additionally, it helps in tracking patients' progress over time, which is crucial for their ongoing dental health and safety.

While complying with legal requirements, tracking financial transactions, and documenting treatments for insurance purposes are important aspects of managing patient records, they serve more as ancillary roles compared to the critical function of ensuring a safe and effective continuum of care for patients.