Dental hygiene diagnosis: A qualitative descriptive study of dental hygienists.

Purpose: The purpose of this qualitative descriptive study was to explore dental hygiene diagnosis (DHDx) to gain an understanding of how dental hygienists experience this phenomenon while providing dental hygiene care.

Methods: A qualitative descriptive research design was employed using purposive sampling. Data were collected from semi-structured interviews with 10 dental hygienists actively practising in California, Oregon or Colorado. The interviews were audiorecorded, transcribed verbatim, and verified for accuracy. Data analysis included open coding and axial coding to determine larger, related segments of data called categories providing an overall descriptive summary of DHDx. Two independent peer examinations and member checks established validity of the data analysis.

Results: Four categories emerged from the study: expertise and confidence; client communication; dental hygiene care plan; and dentists' trust. Participants revealed that expertise and confidence in performing the DHDx was gained through clinical practice. During client care, discussing the DHDx with clients helped to make them aware of their health condition. The development of the dental hygiene care plan was based on the results of the assessment data and the DHDx. Participants stated that their employer/dentist trusted them to diagnose.

Conclusions: A qualitative descriptive study was conducted to summarize dental hygienists' experiences with DHDx in 3 US states; 4 categories emerged. The DHDx informs the client, increases understanding, and engages the client in the decision-making process. Further study is warranted to identify a more contemporary definition of DHDx and to compare how DHDx is utilized by dental hygienists in other countries.