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

How is "General supervision" defined in the context of dental hygiene?

1. A dentist must be on-site at all times

2. Supervision without the need for the dentist to be present

3. A dentist must occasionally check-in

4. Supervision by only dental hygienists

The correct answer is: Supervision without the need for the dentist to be present

In the context of dental hygiene, "general supervision" refers to a model where the dentist does not need to be physically present while the dental hygienist provides care. Instead, the dentist must have established a prior relationship with the patient and has outlined the procedures to be performed. This allows dental hygienists to treat patients autonomously within the framework set by the dentist, which can improve access to care for patients as hygienists can deliver services in various settings without immediate oversight. This form of supervision facilitates a more flexible practice environment where dental hygienists can work independently, promoting efficiency and the ability to serve more patients. It contrasts sharply with types of supervision such as direct supervision, which requires the dentist to be on-site, or other restrictive forms that limit the hygienist's operational scope.