When a patient arrives, what is the first step that should be taken?

The first step when a patient arrives in the dental office should be to ensure their comfort and begin the process of care. Escorting the patient into the operatory is crucial as it starts to establish a welcoming environment and allows the dental team to address any immediate concerns or questions the patient may have. This approach helps to build rapport and ensures that the patient feels at ease, which is particularly important in a dental setting where patients may feel anxious.

Updating the medical history is indeed a vital task, but it typically follows the initial greeting and escorting of the patient. This ensures that the patient is settled in the operatory before addressing their medical history. Removing personal items or draping an apron also come later in the sequence of actions as they are related to preparing the patient for the procedures that will follow once they are in a safe and comfortable space. Thus, starting with the escort not only promotes patient comfort but also facilitates a smoother workflow within the dental practice.