Program Student Learning Outcomes
Graduates of the Dental Hygiene Program will:
- Model ethical, legal, and professional standards of dental hygiene practice by recognizing and explaining rules and regulations established by state licensing agencies; applying the dental hygiene professional code of ethics; providing compassionate and nondiscriminatory oral health care; communicating effectively with peers and instructors; and applying principles of risk management and infection/hazard control to support patient health and reduce liability.
- Demonstrate effective communication, patient education, and collaboration by counseling patients to reduce health risks and promote wellness and by working with patients, clients, and other health professionals to develop comprehensive and continuous plans of care.
- Apply the patient/client process of care by systematically collecting and recording relevant data; interpreting findings to identify oral health needs and problems; using evidence-based decision making consistent with the dental hygiene scope of practice and legal principles to establish a diagnosis; and formulating comprehensive dental hygiene care plans.
- Provide and evaluate patient/client care services by delivering preventive and therapeutic services that promote oral health; evaluating the effectiveness of care plans through appropriate indices, instruments, examination techniques, and patient/client feedback; and modifying care plans or making referrals for follow-up care as needed.
- Demonstrate professional commitment and community involvement by advancing the profession through service and professional affiliations; promoting the values of dental hygiene to the public and outside organizations; and assuming responsibility for self-assessment, personal growth, and lifelong learning.