If a patient arrives for their first visit and the dentist is unavailable, what can the hygienist do?

When a patient arrives for their first visit and the dentist is unavailable, the correct course of action is to not proceed with treatment. In a dental practice, certain procedures require a dentist to establish a patient’s treatment plan, particularly when it comes to understanding the patient's medical history, conducting a full examination, and identifying any potential issues that may need to be addressed. The dentist's absence means the hygienist cannot carry out treatment that requires a comprehensive understanding of the patient’s dental health.

This approach ensures patient safety and medical legal compliance, as hygienists are not authorized to independently initiate treatment without a prior evaluation and diagnosis by a licensed dentist. The protocols established in dental practice emphasize collaborative care, which includes clear lines of responsibility regarding patient management and treatment decision-making. Thus, the hygienist should wait for the dentist to be available to ensure appropriate care and adherence to the regulations governing dental hygiene practice.