NDHCE case studies
NDHCE · Put your knowledge to work in context.
The National Dental Hygiene Certification Examination (NDHCE) is the entry-to-practice examination used to assess whether a graduate of a dental hygiene program has the knowledge, clinical judgement, and professional reasoning expected of a beginning practitioner. It is written for candidates who have completed an accredited dental hygiene diploma or degree and who need to demonstrate competence before registration or licensure with a dental hygiene regulatory body. The NDHCE case studies are 5 cases and about 2,508 words.
1The Patient Who Refuses Radiographs Before a Deep Cleaning
A 58-year-old new patient presents with 6 mm pockets and heavy calculus in the lower anterior region, generalized bleeding on probing, and a self-reported history of type 2 diabetes (HbA1c 8.4%). The dentist's plan is scaling and root planing of two quadrants today.
515 words, about 3 min2Fluoride Varnish in a Community With Well Water
You are the dental hygienist for a rural county health department planning a school-based sealant and fluoride varnish program for 240 second-graders. Most families use private wells.
491 words, about 2 min3Type 2 Diabetes, Bleeding Gums, and a Delayed Appointment
A 47-year-old patient returns for periodontal maintenance six months after scaling and root planing. At the last visit, pockets were 5–6 mm with moderate bleeding.
495 words, about 2 min4A Needlestick During Instrument Processing
At 4:40 p.m., while cleaning instruments after the last patient, a hygienist sustains a needlestick through a glove with a contaminated scaler. The patient treated that afternoon was a 34-year-old with no known bloodborne infection but no recent testing on file.
501 words, about 3 min5Sealants on a Partially Erupted Molar With Questionable Caries
A 7-year-old boy presents with his mother for a recall visit. The lower right first permanent molar is partially erupted, with operculum tissue covering the distal third.
506 words, about 3 min