A 53-year-old female patient presents with visible bruising around her eye. The most appropriate course of action for the dentist is:

Correct answer: C. Ask the patient privately how the injury occurred and document in the notes

• A. Immediate police reporting may not be indicated for adult patients without their consent in all jurisdictions — documentation and private inquiry come first.
• B. The dental assistant should not be asked to investigate — this is the treating dentist's responsibility.
• C. Correct. The appropriate first step is to ask the patient privately (not in front of others) about the injury, listen without judgment, and document the patient's explanation thoroughly in the chart. This approach preserves the therapeutic relationship while creating a record if further action is needed.
• D. Ignoring signs of possible abuse is an ethical and potentially legal violation for a healthcare provider.