Professional Learning Services, LLC

Professional Learning Services, LLC

Dental Hygiene Clinical Refresher Program

Joyce Turcotte RDH, M.Ed., FAADH
President of PLS and Course Director
and Faculty

Voice: 203-261-2857
Fax: 203-459-2911
pls.org

Updates: 1988, 6/89, 3/91, 6/96 3/01; 6/03, 11/04, 4/05, 9/06, 9/08, 6/10, 9/10, 7/11, 11/11, 10/14, 5/15, 11/15, 11/16

PLS DENTAL HYGIENE REFRESHER PROGRAM
MISSION STATEMENT

Due to a mal-distribution of practicing registered dental hygienists, creating a shortage in areas of the country, retraining inactive hygienists to return to the work force is essential. Providing efficient, quality retraining will accelerate dental hygienists back into the dental health profession.

GOAL

Dental hygienists shall have an opportunity to return to active dental hygiene private practice or pursue public health care setting employment.

OBJECTIVES

Following a recommended retraining program, the dental hygienist seeking reinstatement will be able to apply for re-licensure. Currently licensed hygienists will be able to return to clinical practice with updated skills and knowledge of current techniques.

PROCESS

I. ASSESSMENT

For the purpose of tailoring a retraining program, both knowledge and skills are analyzed to identify areas which need development and competency. A self assessment tool provides insight in to the areas requiring the most attention. This is done during the application process.

II. INSTRUCTIONAL PLAN

Based on the assessments, a recommended individualized retraining program is planned. The program will include the following:

A. a suggested number of seminar hours and dental science topics

B. clinical prerequisites and reading recommendations relative to the course agenda

C. number of clinic hours and patient/client classifications

D. an observation and practice time schedule-self designed

E. recommended target dates for completion

III. TYPE OF INSTRUCTION

A. Individualized and small group instruction facilitates an ideal learning environment. Strategies for teaching include lecture and visual presentation, discussion, peer interaction, demonstrations, activities, and hands on practice. Continuing education courses that support the goals may be recommended in conjunction with this program. Audio visual aids, typodont models, products and technology, and patients/clients support the learning process.

Selected readings are provided at the course and internet. Course texts may be required for the hygienist out of practice for an extensive period of time. Following the list of topics on the course agenda, the learner is advised to read chapters in texts. Visual aids, models, and instruments are available for practice. Caution is recommended when applying any new skills or knowledge in clinical practice. Close supervision is provided to ensure patient and operator safety.

IV. FACILITIES

Lectures and clinical practice are located at various sites around Connecticut that are suitable to clinical education. All retraining adheres to the Connecticut State Law Practice Act. Travel directions will be sent before the course.

V. FACULTY

The faculty is experienced licensed dental hygienists with varying backgrounds and expertise in
education, public health, general pediatric and periodontal practice (see pls.org for faculty bios)

VI. EVALUATION

Because of the nature of this retraining program, self evaluation of skills and knowledge are critical to achieving competency. The instructors will guide, coach and advise the learner throughout the program. Competency is based on successful completion of the prescribed program and an instructor's recommendation. If needed, additional instruction may be required to achieve competency. Depending on length of absence from practice, learners may require a clinical assessment prior to the course to determine skill abilities.

VII. LICENSE REINSTATEMENT

This program has been accepted by, but not limited to, Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Illinois, Rhode Island, Alaska, Vermont, Virginia State Boards of Dentistry or equivalent authorizing agencies as a re-entry requirement. These regulatory agencies have the authority and may waive the Regional Boards in lieu of successful program completion. Each State's regulatory agency, upon review of the individual's credentials, may also require additional studies to meet the reinstatement process. All candidates must obtain instructions and follow the re-entry process from their particular State. Prior approval and a re-activation application are required by State regulatory agencies before registering for this course.

Other States have accepted this program when petitioned by the candidate for licensure reactivation. The Canadian Dental Hygiene Registry has approved this course for re-entry training. In order to be considered as a candidate for this program, the dental hygienist must have graduated from a United States accredited dental hygiene institution.

Arrangements, preparation and successful completion of any required State practice exam, when mandated by the Dental Commission/Public Health Department or any other authorizing agency, is independent of the refresher program training.

VIII. PROGRAM COMPLETION

Upon successful completion of program requirements, the dental hygienist will receive

-a certificate of program completion and credits

-letter to authorizing state board and/or letter of recommendation as requested.

IX. MALPRACTICE INSURANCE

Verification of mal practice insurance for the licensed dental hygienist is required by CT state law to provide patient treatment. Please include a copy with your application.

X. COURSE CREDIT

This curriculum is accepted by The Connecticut Department of Public Health for clinical practice in the State of CT. PLS is an American Academy of Dental Hygiene, Inc. (1/1/16 – 12/31/16) AADH does not approve or endorse individual courses or instructors, nor does it imply acceptance of credit hours by boards of dentistry.

PLS is an ADA CERP Recognized Provider (6/2017). ADA CERP is a service of the American Dental Association to assist dental professionals in identifying quality providers of continuing dental education. ADA CERP does not approve or endorse individual courses or instructors, nor does it imply acceptance of credit hours by boards of dentistry.

XI. RESOURCES

To assist the hygienist in re-connecting with the profession, PLS provides information on employment agencies, professional organizations, professional journals and magazines, malpractice carriers, websites, conventions, products and other services.

XII. REGISTRATION INFORMATION

Enrollment is limited and classes consistently sell out. To reserve your seat, please complete the registration form and submit it with your deposit. A confirmation will be sent upon receipt. All other requested information may be completed and submitted to PLS in order of priority:

Most important: For those pursuing reinstatement outside of Connecticut, check with your state regarding re-licensure procedures and requirements.

To reinstate a CT license, contact:

Deborah Brown, Health Program Assistant CT Department of Public Health, Practitioner Licensing and Investigations Section; Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH). Email:

Phone: (860) 509-7590; Fax: (860) 509-8457; www.ct.gov/dph

Request a CT State DH application. Each candidate should include a letter with the application informing the DPH of enrollment in the PLS DH clinical refresher program and request to apply for a stipulated agreement.

Allow at least 3 weeks for processing the application and the stipulated agreement. Deborah Brown will instruct you regarding the application. A $150 fee is made payable to "Treasurer, State of CT".

PLS Registration form may be sent immediately with deposit to secure a reservation. All other documents may be submitted when completed along with the final payment according to the date on your applicant check list letter. Any checks should be made payable to “PLS” and mailed with paperwork to PLS, 2010 Sharon St., Boca Raton, Fl 33486.

1. Self assessment form and copy of driver's license

2. HIPAA, Medical history AND medical immunizations forms

3. State board pre-authorization (for license reinstatement)

4. copy of inactive/active dental hygiene license or proof of graduation (diploma, national and/or clinical board scores)

5. Email completed forms to: or Fax to 203-459-2911

6. Please contact Joyce Turcotte, 203-261-2857 or email, with questions or comments. Confirmation of enrollment will be sent to you by email. Final course details are sent within two weeks of the Program.

After you have completed the Program, you may need to carry your own malpractice policy to practice dental hygiene in accordance with your state’s laws. Two suggested carriers to contact for quotes: Marsh Affinity (800-503-9230) or HPSO (800-982-9491)

XIII. TUITION AND OTHER FEES

A $600 non refundable deposit is due with your registration form to secure your seat. Final payment is due as indicated in your cover letter- 30 days before course begins. Payment is accepted by check to "PLS" or with a major credit card. Some fees may be subject to change.

Refresher program

Materials fee

3 texts

Clinical assessment/practice

Personal protective wear

Additional instruction

Immunizations and eye exam

CPR (available Thursday AM)

$2200

$175

Approx. $200 (graduated 10+ years ago) Recommended

$150 (2 CEUs) (recommended if not practiced 10+ years)

Approx $100 (scrubs, lab jacket, safety glasses). Bring loupes if you have them.

$125 per hour (beyond the DHRP)

Check with your physician

$95 (includes text, 5 CEUs, AHA card)

XIV. CLIENT ARRANGEMENTS

Typodont/Manikin, peer and patient practice provides the hands on the clinical experience. Any medical contraindications to being a patient should be stated in advance. Pre-medication needs should be cleared and prescribed by physician prior to the course.

XV. LENGTH OF PROGRAM

The number of hours that are required to bring a hygienist up to current dental hygiene clinical and academic standards is determined after an initial assessment (phone interview) and re-evaluated throughout the program. In addition to class and clinic time, extensive study from recommended course texts, links, articles is a pre-requisite. Additional instruction may be required to achieve standards of competency based on instructor’s feedback.

The licensed dental hygienist with guidance determines the number of sessions necessary to update clinical skills. Continuing education credits toward license requirements are awarded for the number of hours successfully completed. Specific state requirements for continuing education prevail. PLS is recognized by the ADA as a continuing education provider. PLS is also recognized by the American Academy of Dental Hygiene, Inc. (AADH) as a continuing education provider.

XVI. SCHEDULE

Group instruction (32 hours) is scheduled at pre-set times and dates. Private instruction is arranged at mutually agreeable dates and times.

XVII. IMMUNIZATIONS/EYE EXAM
Verification by physician of immunizations is required prior to rendering clinical services. Please refer to the enclosed list of immunizations and medical forms. We strongly recommend an eye

exam.

PLS DENTAL HYGIENE RETRAINING PROGRAM OBJECTIVES

1. Interpret medical histories and vital signs to identify clients at high risk and health alerts.

2. Provide dental hygiene services in an ethical, legal, and professional standard.

3. Operate dental equipment in a safe and efficient manner.

4. Apply current concepts in infection control abiding by the CDC and OSHA.

5. Perform a sequential comprehensive extra and intra oral exam.

6. Document all findings on client records for dental consultation and referral.

7. Produce and interpret an accurate charting of dental and periodontal findings.

8. Evaluate completion of clinical prophylaxis through use of diagnostic and adjunctive aides.

9. Perform services in an ergonomically acceptable method.

10. Demonstrate the use of dental hygiene diagnostic instruments and technology.

11. Assess the client's dental hygiene treatment needs and establish a treatment plan accordingly.

12. Educate client in preventive home care techniques according to assessed needs.

13. Behave professionally and treat clients equally, adhering to government laws.

14. Select instruments and equipment appropriate to the needs and indications of treatment.

15. Activate instruments with efficiency, thoroughness, and with minimal tissue manipulation.

16. Sharpen scalers and curets to preserve original cutting edge.

17. Execute dental hygiene treatment with sound judgment based on current practice techniques.

18. Produce a diagnostic set of x-ray images and apply safe operating techniques.

19. Identify normal and abnormal radiographic findings.

20. Explain criteria and demonstrate technique for sealant and fluoride treatment.

21. Empower the client through education and training to improve and value oral health.

22. Be current in CPR & AED Healthcare Provider.

Textbooks and Assignment and Course Agenda:

As adult learners, we are self motivated and therefore readings are not assigned. Our recommendation is to review the course topics on the agenda and study related chapters in the recommended texts or online articles. A list of texts is provided below.

Mosby's Dental Hygiene - Concepts, Cases, and Competencies; current edition

Susan J. Daniel, RDH, BS, D.A.T.E., MS, Sherry A. Harfst, RDH, BSDH, MS and Rebecca Wilder, RDH, BSDH, MS

Oral Pathology for the Dental Hygienist, current edition; Olga A. C. Ibsen, RDH, MS & Joan Anderson Phelan, DDS

Alternate to Mosby's Dental Hygiene - Concepts, Cases, and Competencies

1. Clinical Practice of the Dental Hygienist, current edition, Esther Wilkins, RDH, DMD

2. Comprehensive Review of Dental hygiene, current edition, Michele Darby, RDH, MS

Bring the following:
Two sets of basic scrubs (any color or design)
Lab jacket, high neck, fluid resistant, long sleeved with ribbed cuff (any color or design)
Close toed shoes or sneakers
Eyewear Safety shields- impact resistant, full eye coverage and side protection. Clear and bifocal are available for purchase at the course for approx $25 with advance notice. You may bring your own face shields or magnification loupes.

Lodgings: Reserve early at the Homewood Suites for the "PLS" price of $99 plus tax. Contact the hotel directly for this price (203) 377-3322 or request to speak with Clare Pusateri, sales coordinator. Address: 6905 Main Street, Stratford, CT 06614.

Meals: The Homewood Suites provides a light dinner and beverages on Thursday night. Breakfast buffet is also provided every morning by the hotel. Check with the hotel for schedule. Lunches are provided by PLS for Friday and Saturday. For special diets or other personal needs, we encourage you to provide your own or contact us to see what arrangements are available.

Dental Hygiene Instructors:

Joyce Turcotte, RDH, M.Ed; FAADH, BLSI Faculty, Course Director Cathie Collier, RDH, MS, BLSI, Certified OraSpa Consultant

Wendy Mazzamauro, RDH, BLSI

Stacey Meehan, RDH, BS, BLSI, EMT
Maya Zeiberg, MS, CDA, RDH
Linda Hayes-Lutian, RDH, MS candidate
Ruth Long, RDH, BS
Laura Acuna, CDA

Travel Instructions:

Class room and Lodgings -Homewood Suites, 6905 Main St., Stratford, CT.

Clinical Site (Saturday and Sunday) 2150 Black Rock Turnpike, Fairfield, CT.

Airports:
Tweed-New Haven Airport

Distance from hotel: 16 mi; drive time: 20 min.

Directions: 1-95 South to Rt. 15 South, take Exit 53. Hotel is directly across from the exit.

Transportation to and from the Airport

Bradley International Airport

Distance from hotel: 60 mi. Drive time: 60 min.

Directions: Take 1-91 South to Rt. 15 South (Wilbur Cross Parkway), to Exit 53. Hotel is across from exit. NO shuttle service to hotels. It would be best to rent a car.

La Guardia Airport