What is the responsibility of a dentist when treating a patient under general supervision?

When a dentist is treating a patient under general supervision, the responsibility primarily involves providing initial directions for the treatment. This means that the dentist must give specific guidance on how to carry out the procedure, while the actual treatment may be performed by a licensed dental hygienist or dental assistant without the dentist being directly present. This arrangement allows for a more efficient workflow, enabling support staff to manage certain tasks while still maintaining the quality and safety of patient care according to the dentist's outline and expertise.

The other options do not align with the definition of general supervision. Being present during all procedures is characteristic of direct supervision, where the dentist must be on site to perform or oversee treatments. Following up after treatment is certainly an aspect of patient care but is not a specific responsibility tied to the supervision structure. Ensuring a patient has transportation home relates to broader patient management concerns but also falls outside the immediate responsibilities tied to general supervision. Hence, the correct response emphasizes the essential role of the dentist in guiding the treatment process, establishing a clear line of communication and protocol during the treatment performed by others.