If a dental hygienist is making decisions independently without dentist's instructions, what supervision is being violated?

The scenario describes a dental hygienist making independent decisions without the dentist's instructions, which violates the principles of direct supervision. Under direct supervision, a dentist must be physically present in the office and oversee the procedures performed by the dental hygienist, providing instructions as needed. This requirement ensures that patient safety and care standards are upheld through the dentist's direct involvement.

If the dental hygienist is acting without the requisite directives from the dentist, it implies that there is a breakdown in this supervisory model. Direct supervision is essential for certain tasks that necessitate the oversight of a dentist to ensure proper treatment protocols and to address any unforeseen issues that may arise. Engaging in decision-making independently suggests a level of autonomy inconsistent with the structured oversight laid out in direct supervision laws.

On the other hand, general supervision allows a dental hygienist to perform certain tasks without the dentist's immediate presence, so long as the hygienist is licensed and the procedures are within their scope of practice. Indirect supervision typically involves the dentist giving instructions but not being physically present at the time of the procedure. However, in this situation, the absence of instructions altogether indicates a violation of direct supervision.

Therefore, the correct answer accurately identifies the supervisory model that governs the dental hygienist's