Critical Thinking for Clinical Decisions: Sifting through the Hype - Presented by Trisha O’Hehir
4 hours - 4 CEU
Trust Me, I'm a Dental Hygienist: Ethical Foundations for Practice - Presented by Dr. Emily Boge EdD, RDH, CDA, FAADH, FADHA
2 Hours - 2 CUE
6 CEU Live Interactive for $60!
Critical Thinking for Clinical Decisions: Sifting through the Hype
presented by Trisha O’Hehir
Critical thinking is an essential skill for both professional practice and everyday decision-making. In clinical settings, it bridges the gap between scientific evidence, personal experience, and patient preferences. This course, led by Trisha, explores the foundational elements of critical thinking—examining the who, what, when, where, why, and how of this vital skill. Participants will learn how critical thinking enhances clinical practices, including periodontal instrumentation, daily oral hygiene decisions, and evaluating options like xylitol versus fluoride. Additionally, the course addresses how values and beliefs can evolve with new information. The course also highlights the growing recognition of nasal breathing's importance for overall health and its role in clinical recommendations. Drawing on over five decades of experience in the dental hygiene profession, Trisha provides historical insights and practical examples of how critical thinking has driven positive change in the field.
Learning Objectives:
Define critical thinking and explain its importance in clinical and everyday decision-making.
Apply critical thinking to evaluate scientific evidence, clinical experience, and patient preferences in treatment planning.
Analyze case studies to demonstrate critical thinking in areas such as periodontal instrumentation and oral hygiene practices.
Compare the benefits and limitations of preventive strategies, such as xylitol and fluoride, using critical thinking.
Identify how personal values and beliefs influence decision-making and adapt these perspectives when presented with new evidence.
Reflect on the evolution of critical thinking within the dental hygiene profession and its impact on current practices.
Understand the value of nasal breathing for overall health and incorporate it into patient education and treatment planning.
Trust Me, I'm a Dental Hygienist: Ethical Foundations for Practice
Presented by Dr. Emily Boge EdD, RDH, CDA, FAADH, FADHA
Course Description: This engaging course is designed to explore the essential ethical principles that underpin the practice of dental hygiene. This course intends to provide clear information and guidance for clinicians, as they navigate the unique ethical decision-making challenges of private practice. This course also reviews the Standards of Clinical Dental Hygiene Practice and the professional association’s Code of Ethics, relating both to ethical decision making chairside. Topics covered will include confidentiality, informed consent, patient autonomy, integrity, professionalism, and cultural competence. Real-life ethical dilemmas commonly encountered in dental hygiene practice are reviewed, as attendees develop critical thinking skills to navigate these challenges effectively.
Furthermore, regulatory frameworks governing dental hygiene practice will be explored, emphasizing the importance of adhering to ethical standards within the boundaries of the law. Throughout the course, emphasis will be placed on fostering a culture of trust, respect, and integrity in the dental hygiene profession. By the end of the course, attendees will emerge with a heightened awareness of ethical issues in dental hygiene practice, enhanced decision-making skills, and a solid foundation in ethical conduct that will serve as a cornerstone for their professional careers.
Learning Objectives:
Discuss the role of the dental hygienist in delivering quality health care.
Understand the importance of ethical principles in the dental hygiene profession.
Identify ethical dilemmas commonly faced in dental hygiene practice.
Explore the ethical responsibilities of dental hygienists towards patients, colleagues, and the community through the professional association’s Code of Ethics.
Discuss regulatory frameworks governing dental hygiene practice and their ethical implications as professionals who adhere to the Standards of Clinical Dental Hygiene Practice.
Cultivate trust, professionalism, and integrity in all aspects of dental hygiene practice.
Reflect on personal values and ethical decision-making processes in the context of dental hygiene practice.
