Which of the following is a requirement for an RDH practicing in a nursing home?

The requirement that an RDH (Registered Dental Hygienist) must have experience or hours under a licensed dentist is essential for practice in a nursing home setting. This stipulation ensures that the hygienist has received the necessary clinical training and practical exposure under the supervision of a licensed dentist, which is crucial for delivering safe and effective dental care to residents. This experience allows the RDH to develop the skills needed to address the unique oral health challenges often faced by elderly patients, who may have complex medical histories and varying levels of mobility or cognitive ability.

In the context of nursing home practice, this experience is vital not only for effective treatment but also for compliance with legal and regulatory standards governing dental services in such facilities. Dental hygiene in a nursing home often involves working closely with a multidisciplinary team, requiring clear communication and the ability to make informed decisions based on the residents' overall health conditions.

While other choices might suggest various qualifications for practicing in specific situations, they do not accurately reflect the requirements pertinent to RDH practice within nursing homes. For example, direct supervision at all times could be overly restrictive, as some states allow independent practice under certain conditions. Specialty certification is not a standard requirement for RDHs, and graduation from a nursing program does not apply to RD