Title: Social Issues
Course: DEH 2811 Ethics > Section: Module 7 - Social Issues

Introduction

In this module, students will learn about workplace legislation that protects both the dental hygienist and the patient from discrimination. The signs and symptoms of child, spouse, and elderly abuse will be presented along with the responsibility of the dental hygienist in reporting such abuse. This module also includes topics pertaining to access to care.
As a health care professional, a dental hygienist has a responsibility to report abuse to the proper authorities. Dental hygienists must be able to recognize the signs and symptoms of abuse. Social issues such as discrimination and abuse sometimes occur in the profession of dentistry and dental hygienists should be properly trained on how to appropriately deal with these situations.

Objectives

Upon completion of this module, the student will be able to:

- Identify legislation that protects and aids the patient and the dental hygienist against discrimination in dentistry.
- Recognize the signs of abuse (child, spouse, and elderly).
- Discuss the ethical and legal obligations to identify and report the signs of abuse (child, spouse, and elderly).
- List barriers to access to care and reasons for disparities in oral health care.
- Discuss the role of the dental hygienist as an advocate for oral health care.

Readings & Resources

Required textbook reading:  (Chapter #6, pp. 86-109).  Ethics, Jurisprudence, and Practice Management in Dental Hygiene, Vickie Kimbrough-Walls & Charla Lautar, 3rd Edition.

Required textbook reading: Elder Abuse-Inside E Street

Assignments and Activities

- Post to the Module 7 Discussion Board.
- Complete the Module 7 Reflective Assignment.
- Complete the Final Exam.