What supervision is required for a Dental Hygienist to prescribe drugs or medications?

In Washington State, dental hygienists are not authorized to prescribe drugs or medications under any supervision. The scope of practice for dental hygienists does not include the ability to prescribe medications, which is typically reserved for dentists and other licensed healthcare providers who have undergone extensive training and have the authority to make clinical decisions involving medications.

This distinction is important in understanding the roles within dental practice. While dental hygienists are instrumental in patient care—conducting cleanings, assessments, and preventive care—they do not have the legal authority to prescribe drugs. Therefore, the correct answer reflects the reality that dental hygienists operate within a scope of practice that does not extend to prescription authority, regardless of the supervision level that might apply to other tasks within their role.