What action does the Board have authority to take when handling complaints?

• A. Criminal penalties under state law.
• B. Suggestions for cosmetic advertising.
• C. Professional mentorship programs.
• D. The Board has authority to investigate complaints and take measures such as restrictions, suspensions, or revocations.

Answer: (D)

The board’s role is to regulate the practice and protect the public. When a complaint is filed, the board can investigate to determine if a violation of statutes or rules has occurred. If findings support a violation, the board can take regulatory actions to safeguard patients, including imposing temporary restrictions and, ultimately, sanctions such as restrictions on practice, suspensions, or revocations of the license. These are disciplinary measures carried out within the licensing framework, not criminal penalties issued by the state as part of criminal law. The other options don’t reflect the board’s authority to investigate and impose formal sanctions.