Ask a Pro: RDH doesn’t like being left alone with patient at end of day
Question: I'm a new grad and I’ve worked in one office since I graduated. More than once I’ve been left alone at the end of the day with a patient. This makes me uncomfortable to be in charge of locking up the office, as well as to be alone with a patient. Who knows what could happen? Is this something that happens often in dentistry?
Answer from Kimberly Augustus, BA, RDH: First of all, congrats on starting your career! But it sounds like you've been thrown into the deep end pretty quickly. So let me say, being left alone to lock up the office and manage a patient by yourself at the end of the day is not something you want to be doing and not the expectation that you want to set.
Your concern is completely valid. Being alone in the office poses personal safety risks and professional liability concerns. No job is worth feeling unsafe, unless this is something that you agreed upon when you were hired. Even then, safeguards should be in place.
My recommendations
Communicate with your employer: Schedule a private meeting with your doctor, office manager, or whoever is in charge. Sometimes the doctor may not even be aware that this is happening. Be clear but also be professional when you speak to them.
"There have been a few times now that I’ve been left alone with patients at the end of the day. I don’t feel comfortable with this for safety reasons, and I want to discuss a plan to ensure that someone else is present or handles lock-up duties."
Establish boundaries: If this pattern continues after you’ve brought your concerns to their attention, it may be time to reevaluate whether this is the right office for you. A workplace that values your safety and well-being will take this seriously!
Trust your instincts: If you ever feel truly unsafe, don’t hesitate to contact someone immediately, whether it’s another team member, your doctor, or even local authorities if needed. Your safety is non-negotiable.
You are absolutely valid in your concerns and this situation can and should be addressed. Advocating for yourself now will set the tone for your career going forward. You’ve got this!
Do you have a question for a pro? Send it to Kimberly at [email protected].
