Hygienist Finding Oral Lump — ORE Part 1 MCQ

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EasyBehavioural Sciences & EthicsHygienist Finding Oral LumpORE Part 1

During scaling, a dental hygienist identifies a previously undiagnosed firm, painless lump in a patient's floor of mouth. What is the most appropriate action?

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Correct answer: B — Explain the concern, arrange dental assessment and record the finding

Explanation lettering: E = shown as A · A = shown as B · B = shown as D · D = shown as E

A is correct. A firm, painless floor-of-mouth lump is an area of concern requiring prompt assessment rather than treatment by the hygienist. GDC direct-access guidance states that hygienists should refer patients to a dentist or other relevant healthcare professional when they identify such concerns. The patient should be informed of the need for assessment, and the clinical finding and referral discussion must be recorded accurately. B is unsafe because identifying a concern requires escalation, even if definitive diagnosis is outside the hygienist’s competence. C may delay appropriate dental assessment and omits the required referral pathway and documentation. D is outside the appropriate response and competence in this setting. E risks masking or delaying investigation of a potentially serious lesion.

Reference: General Dental Council. Direct access, updated 1 November 2025. https://www.gdc-uk.org/standards-guidance/standards-and-guidance/direct-access