Transforming and Supporting Patient Care - Health Professions ...

194Chapter 8 – Profession of Dental Hygieneregulation under the Dental Hygiene Act, 1991. The CDHO and the ODHAagree that one of the main reasons for objecting to a list of drugs in theregulation is the regulation-making process itself. They said that having a listof individual drugs in regulations under the Act would impede theimplementation of best practices. However, if classes are deemed necessary,the CDHO proposes that the classes should include, but not be limited to:• Fluorides,• Oral rinses,• Topical agents,• Anaesthetics,• Smoking cessation drugs,• Antibiotics,• Antifungals,• Anti-infectives,• Antivirals,• Epinephrine,• Bronchodilators,• Topical corticosteroids,• Nitrous oxide/oxygen conscious sedation,• Contents of emergency kit, and• Pain control, such as ASA, ibuprofen and acetaminophen.• The ODHA recommended that the class of drugs also include:• Anti-inflammatories,• Anti-allergics including antihistaminics,• Sedative-hypnotics, and• Salivary stimulants.Proponents’ RationaleCurrently in Ontario, dental hygienists do not have the authority toprescribe, dispense or compound drugs. Proponents said this authoritywould be consistent with the evolution of dental hygienists as independentpractitioners who can, under prescribed conditions, self-initiate oral caretreatment to their clients.To maximize client convenience and health outcomes, the abilityto prescribe is an important adjunct to independent practice.Margaret Carter, Executive DirectorOntario Dental Hygienists’ AssociationHPRAC Critical Links January 2009