How does New Jersey define "unethical conduct" for dental hygienists?

New Jersey defines "unethical conduct" for dental hygienists as behavior that violates professional standards or laws. This definition encompasses a range of actions that may compromise the integrity of the dental hygiene profession, including failing to adhere to the ethical guidelines established by the New Jersey State Board of Dentistry and relevant state statutes. Professional standards are designed to ensure quality care, protect patient rights, and maintain the public's trust in the profession. Thus, any action that contravenes these established norms can be considered unethical.

The emphasis on professional standards and laws means that any unethical behavior could lead to disciplinary action, including suspension or revocation of licensure. This highlights the importance for dental hygienists to be well-informed about the legal and ethical expectations of their profession in order to safeguard their practice and their patients.

In contrast, acceptable behavior within the dental practice refers to actions that align with professional standards and legislation, thus not qualifying as unethical. Inconsistent practices across different states may raise questions about uniformity but do not specifically define unethical conduct. Lastly, minor infractions of state regulations might not reach the threshold of unethical behavior, as they could be subject to less severe consequences and may not directly violate the core ethical principles guiding dental hygiene.