To be competent is not just simply being able to perform a certain task accurately. Competency requires the versatility of skills- the ability to evolve and adapt yourself and your skill set to fit a variety of problems. Critical thinking goes hand in hand with the concept of becoming competent in a certain skill or task, as my ability to ascertain and interpret individual cases grows alongside my understanding of the oral cavity. Throughout my time in the dental hygiene program, I will be part of numerous scenarios that will reflect real world scenarios and everyday life of an RDH. As I continue to encounter more experiences I will be documenting my own progress throughout my education. The four competencies that I will be reflecting on are:

COMPETENCIES

1.0  Graduates must be competent in providing the dental hygiene process of care including assessment, diagnosis, planning, implementation, evaluation, and documentation to people of all stages of life, ages, and cultural backgrounds.

2.0  Graduates must be able to demonstrate competence in the ability to assess, plan, implement, and evaluate the oral health needs of community-based programs.

3.0  Our graduates must be competent in communication skills with individuals, colleagues, and other health professionals from diverse backgrounds.

4.0  Graduates must demonstrate competence in ethical and professional standards both in their conduct and the delivery of evidence-based dental hygiene care.