Portland Community College | Portland, Oregon

The student will be introduced to treatment of special needs/medically compromised patients and begin treatment of patients utilizing area specific instruments and ultrasonic instrumentation.  Co-requisite DH 103.

1. Provide dental hygiene therapy to an increasing number and difficulty of clinical patients by applying and relating higher levels of knowledge and skills during clinical sessions, and through case study discussions in the classroom.

2. Apply knowledge and treatment adaptations required for patients presenting with special needs.

3. Recognize and relate special needs and compromised medical conditions information in preparation for passing these tested portions on the Dental Hygiene National Board.

Complete a test case at 75% or better.
Complete at least 8 clinical patients to reach the minimum of 15 patients for DH 105 & DH 106 clinical requirements.
Complete all clinical objectives
Complete self-evaluations of clinical performance on each patient completed.
Complete clinic management rotations as assigned.
Weekly journals.

Themes, Concepts and Issues:

• Treatment of the geriatric patient

• Treatment of patients who are medically compromised, disabled or who have special needs.

• Providing tobacco cessation counseling and program referrals.

• Determination of appropriate patients for and use of ultrasonic instrumentation

• Treatment of patients with dental fear

• Identifying patients who require special modifications of treatment.

• Helping patients with special needs reach optimum oral health.

• Acceptance and compassion for patients with diverse needs.

• Dental hygiene process of care.

• Relieving patient anxiety and fear

• Providing access to dental care

• Safety of patients with special needs

• Patient motivation and education

• Operator safety

COMPETENCIES AND SKILLS:

1. Follow OSHA guidelines while performing patient care.
2. Use the dental hygiene process of care during patient treatment.
3. Assess patient’s needs and make appropriate modifications when necessary.
4. Design dental hygiene care plans, patient education, and maintenance recommendations to meet individual needs of each patient.
5. Provide beginning periodontal instrumentation and ultrasonic debridement therapy.
6. Use inquiry and listening communication skills.
7. Use critical thinking, decision making and time management skills.
8. Access professional and research resources.
9. Document in patient charts accurately