| Occupational Exposure |
The Dental hygiene student may be exposed to communicable diseases, body fluids, toxic substances, latex, and medicinal preparations. Students shall use appropriate precautions at all times. |
Provide care, using standard precautions, for a client/patient with a communicable disease. |
| Communication |
Written, verbal, & auditory communication skills to permit effective interaction with others. |
Communicate with staff members, patients, and other students while wearing high filtration masks. Ascertain medical/dental history information. Monitor patient needs during treatment. Provide individualized home care instructions. |
| Visual |
Visual acuity sufficient to read medical information and assess dental conditions. |
Annotate chart entries on paper and/or computerized dental records. Assess intra oral conditions. Interpret dental radiographs. |
| Mobility |
Sufficient mobility to maneuver in small areas. |
Access patient within confines of dental operatory and radiographic room, which involves a variety of sitting & standing positions, including bending, twisting, and reaching. Access darkroom for development of radiographs. |
| Motor Skills |
Fine and gross motor skills sufficient to perform complex psychomotor tasks. |
Explore and scale teeth with small diameter instruments. Manipulate power-driven instruments. Place intra oral dental radiographs. |
| Cognitive/Critical Thinking |
Cognitive ability sufficient to recognize deviations from normal, co-diagnose, and plan treatment. |
Respond quickly & appropriately to medical emergencies. Utilize assessment information to identify pathology, individualize treatment, and suggest referral when necessary. |
