Hygienist Essay

From pediatric patients to geriatric patients, respiratory diseases and disorders can affect a variety of patients. Many of which cause lower respiratory rates and drug interactions that can compromise routine dental treatment and even elicit medical emergencies. A hygienist should not only have the knowledge to treat a respiratory emergency but also how to prevent one. Respiratory diseases can be divided into upper and lower respiratory diseases, some requiring more precautions than others. It is important to know the general characteristics of both types and the problems they present to receiving dental treatment. This paper is indicated to discuss the identification, precaution, and treatment of patients with respiratory diseases most commonly seen in a dental setting.
Upper respiratory diseases are typically caused by infections to the sinuses, nasal passages, pharynx, and larynx. Named specifically by their location, the most common are sinusitis, rhinitis, pharyngitis, tonsillitis, and influenza. They can be transmitted airborne or contact with infected persons or objects that have been newly infected by the discharge of the infected person. Therefore, hygienist should know the signs and symptoms in case a patient should be
This type of asthma accounts for half of all asthmatics. Allergens included, but are not limited to, are pollen, dust, and furry animals. Some dental materials such as resins, eugenol, impression materials, and latex can trigger an asthma attack (Grimes 135). Once the allergen is exposed, the allergen binds to the IgE, resulting in the mast cell releasing asthma mediators that cause “bronchoconstriction, vasodilation, and mucous production” (Wilkins 997). The best way to prevent an event from occurring in the dental chair is to review the patient’s medical history to identify the dental triggers and not incorporate them in the