Mandatory Reporting and Abuse/Neglect Obligations
What the exam tests
This domain tests who must report suspected abuse or neglect, to which agency, and at what threshold. New Hampshire dental professionals are mandatory reporters.
Core rules
- Report suspected child abuse or neglect to the Division for Children, Youth and Families (DCYF) and/or law enforcement. Report suspected adult or elder abuse or neglect to the Bureau of Adult and Elderly Services (BEAS).
- The standard is reasonable suspicion, not proof. You do not investigate, interview family members, or wait for certainty.
- The duty is personal. Telling the dentist does not satisfy the hygienist's own reporting obligation, although office policy may assign follow-up.
- Good-faith reports are protected; failure to report can lead to criminal penalties and Board discipline.
- Document objective findings and the fact that a report was made, without speculative conclusions.
Worked example
A child has injuries in different stages of healing; the parent says the child “falls a lot.” Reasoning: the findings create reasonable suspicion; report to DCYF, document the observed injuries and the parent's explanation, and do not attempt to determine whether abuse occurred. Confidentiality does not bar the report.
Traps that cost marks
Waiting for proof; assuming the dentist's report covers the hygienist; letting the parent's permission control the decision; and recording opinions rather than observations.