Dental Hygienist: Who? Where? How?

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My name is Selina Devlin,
I am Dental Hygienist and I'm here
to 'break mysteries' about this so
popular nowadays profession


 Dental Hygienist Code of Ethics  (01.02.11)

No matter what professional field you choose there are some main rules of behavior. In general, the set of these rules is called the Code of Ethics. Have you ever heard about it? Well, if you dream of becoming a dental hygienist you should get acquainted with the dental hygienist code of ethics.

You may think it's not very important to know that. But I'll say you're mistaken. Read on, and you'll understand why the code of ethics is the vital part of dental hygienist work.

So who has created these rules common for all dental hygienists? It was set by American Dental Hygienist Association. Dental hygienist code of ethics is aimed at reminding these specialists about the importance of professional judgment and conduct. Main standards of what is right and what is wrong for dental hygienists are set here.

What core beliefs does this code describe? All people should have access to the high-quality oral health care. This belief has been the main philosophy of dental hygienists since the first dental hygiene school was established. Dental hygienists also acknowledge that their work is the part of overall health care. It means that they should work in the cooperation with other health care providers.

Code of ethics emphasizes the most important rules of behavior. Dental hygienists should maintain a comfortable environment for their clients. Any discrimination must be avoided during the dental hygienist work. In addition, the real professional must be respectful and maintain the client's confidentiality. He or she must also answer all the patient's questions concerning oral care. Moreover, dental hygienist should do this before the treatment. The patient has the right to decide on the treatment and health care on his own. Dental hygienist must send the patient to other specialists if he/she notices some problems beyond his his/her competence.

There is one more important point stated in the code of ethics. Dental hygienists should never stop improving their knowledge. They should always meet the high standards of health care. Dental hygienists should also use every opportunity to educate people about oral health. In addition to all this, dental hygienists are obliged to report about the cases of illegal activities of health care providers.

So do you understand now why the code of ethics is important for every professional? It is a written philosophy for the dental hygienists. It is the foundation for all the other dental hygienist skills and requirements. So keep to this philosophy and be proud to call yourself a dental hygienist!