DH 203 - Special Patients

1. Modify dental hygiene care for patients with special needs based upon their unique circumstances in the areas of: (a) appointment planning, (b) environmental considerations - such as equipment positioning and patient positioning, (c) individualized home care plans and (d) monitoring safety precautions during clinical treatment.
2. Develop competence in the clinical management of patients challenged with physical and mental disabilities (i.e. blindness, hearing impaired, medically compromised, geriatric, challenging pediatric patients, and patients with debilitating diseases).
3. Outline commonly occurring disabilities which require special attention or modification during dental hygiene treatment.
4. Explain the etiology and risk factors for disabilities and disease.
5. Evaluate patient signs and symptoms which could signal the onset of a medical emergency.
6. Assess barriers that limit access to health care services: (a) communication, (b) emotional consideration, (c) physical considerations, and (d) financial considerations.