Washington State Dental Hygiene (DH) Drug & Law Practice Exam

In Washington State, dental hygienists are permitted to take and record blood pressure and vital signs independently as part of their clinical responsibilities. This ability aligns with the scope of practice established for dental hygienists, allowing them to assess a patient's overall health in order to provide appropriate care.

Monitoring vital signs, such as blood pressure, is an essential component of patient assessment. By obtaining this information, dental hygienists can recognize any health issues that may impact dental treatment and ensure patient safety. The independence in performing these tasks without the supervision of a dentist or physician reflects the level of training and competency that dental hygienists attain through their education and licensure.

This practice also emphasizes the importance of comprehensive patient care, where a hygienist can identify potential health concerns early on. Consequently, the correct response affirms the professional role of dental hygienists in the healthcare team, particularly in their ability to administer basic health assessments on their own.