What action can the Board take against a dental hygienist who presents a false diploma?

The action that the Board can take against a dental hygienist who presents a false diploma encompasses a range of disciplinary measures, and the option indicating that all of these actions could be taken is accurate. Presenting false credentials, such as a diploma, is a serious offense in the field of dental hygiene because it undermines professional integrity and public trust.

Reprimanding a dental hygienist might serve as an initial disciplinary step, highlighting the seriousness of the infraction without necessarily removing the individual from practice. Placing a practitioner on probation can allow them to continue practicing under specific conditions while receiving oversight, which is a common approach for addressing misconduct that may not warrant immediate revocation of practice privileges. However, in more severe cases, such as representing fraudulent qualifications, revocation or suspension of the license becomes a vital consideration to protect patients and uphold the standards of the profession.

Thus, the comprehensive option that includes all possible actions reflects the Board's authority to tailor consequences based on the severity and circumstances surrounding the misconduct. This underscores the importance of ethical conduct and the Board's commitment to maintaining a competent and trustworthy healthcare environment.