RDA duty: Place sutures is allowed under what condition?

• A. Not allowed
• B. Direct supervision
• C. Indirect supervision
• D. General supervision

Answer: (A)

The main idea being tested is the scope of practice for an RDA and which procedures are reserved for the dentist. Placing sutures is a surgical task that requires precise tissue handling, knot tying, and judgment about wound closure and healing. In this framework, suturing is not within the duties allowed for an RDA, regardless of the supervision level. Even if a dentist is present for supervision, the actual placement of sutures is reserved for the licensed dentist (or an explicitly authorized provider under specific expanded-function rules). An RDA’s role is to assist during the procedure—retract, suction, pass instruments, and prepare materials—but the act of suturing itself is not permitted. This is why the correct stance is that placing sutures is not allowed for an RDA under the given conditions.