Objectives: 

• Learn to collect and analyze data acquired during a health history assessment to identify if a patient may be at   risk of experiencing  a medical emergency
• Identify the appropriate items that should be included in a basic first aid kit that will assist in managing a medical emergency
• Describe what a medical emergency management response plan should include and implementation steps

The purpose of this course is to equip the Dental Hygienist with the knowledge to recognize, treat, and prevent medical emergencies in a dental healthcare setting. The number of medically compromised dental patients taking prescribed medications is increasing and contributing to an escalation of medical emergencies occurring during a dental appointment. This course will address the most common medical emergencies an RDH might experience and provide instruction on recognition, treatment, and prevention methods.

 An emphasis will be placed on the Assessment step of the Dental Hygiene Process of Care to illustrate its crucial role in preventing a patient medical emergency. At the end of this course, attendees will be able to identify common medical emergencies, treatment options, and prevention methods.