Well-meaning but ill-judged?

GDC registrants, dental nurses are now able to expand their role and responsibilities and, with appropriate training, can include a range of patient care procedures in their scope of practice. This means that it's increasingly important for them to understand how they can be held accountable for their behaviour – both at work and out of work is relevant to their professional status.

In Standard 9, of Standards for the Dental Team, clear expectations are set out about the behaviour and relationships that GDC registrants are expected to develop. These are set out in three categories, which are to ensure your conduct inspires trust, protects patients from the risks posed by your health, and insists you must inform and cooperate with the GDC should you be subject to criminal proceedings.