Dental Hygienist Checklist
Before dental hygienists seat their first patient, they must organize, inspect and check off items on their to-do list. Preparation for the day means their attention will be on patient care and providing excellent service, which ensures the patient has a comfortable and safe experience. A dental hygienist checklist ensures preparedness and readiness.
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Reviewing the Schedule
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The very first thing dental hygienists must do is look over their schedule for the day. The schedule will inform them of the names of the patients, what procedures they are to perform, how much time to allocate per patient and whether any patients canceled their appointment.
Checking the Operatory
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Dental hygienists must review the operatory. They must make sure all surfaces are clean and equipment is working, e.g., the X-ray machine; the cavitron, which is a dental tool that uses high-frequency sound waves to clean teeth; and chairs. Dental hygienists must ensure the supply drawer is sufficiently stocked. They must set out the instruments and supplies for the first patient and the specific procedure.
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Reviewing the Charts
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When dental hygienists review patient charts, they are looking for medical issues that could compromise the procedure. Dental hygienists are also looking for any special instructions from the patient's previous visit that apply to the patient's current visit, such as taking recommended X-rays. At this time, the dental hygienists will review the chart with the doctor and ask any questions. Some offices have a morning meeting to review charts and the schedule.
Conducting Final Setup
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Once the dental hygienists have reviewed the chart, schedule and operatory, the last item on the checklist is to see to the patient's comfort and safety. That entails equipping patients with such items as goggles to protect their eyes; a drape to protect their clothing; and a neck rest or a personal headset, if needed.
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References
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