Registered Dental Hygienist in Alternative Practice (RDHAP) Law and Ethics Practice Exam

Which of the following is part of dental hygiene assessment?

1. Diagnosis of diseases

2. Creating a treatment plan

3. Surgical procedures

4. Prescribing medication

The correct answer is: Creating a treatment plan

Creating a treatment plan is a fundamental aspect of dental hygiene assessment. This process involves evaluating a patient’s dental health and identifying their specific needs based on the findings from the assessment. A treatment plan outlines the steps that will be taken to address the identified issues, whether they relate to oral hygiene practices, preventive care, or additional interventions necessary to improve the patient's oral health. In the context of dental hygiene, assessment encompasses a variety of tasks such as gathering and analyzing patient histories, conducting oral examinations, and identifying risks for periodontal disease or cavities. Based on this comprehensive assessment, the dental hygienist can then formulate an effective treatment plan tailored to the patient's unique circumstances. The other options reflect functions that fall outside the province of dental hygiene assessment. Diagnosing diseases pertains to making medical decisions typically reserved for licensed dentists or specialists. Surgical procedures involve hands-on interventions that go beyond the scope of practice for a dental hygienist. Prescribing medication likewise requires additional qualifications and typically cannot be performed by dental hygiene practitioners under standard practice regulations. Therefore, creating a treatment plan, informed by a thorough assessment, is a key component of the dental hygiene process.