CLIENT SPECIFIC

The need for antibiotic prophylaxis

for the prevention of infective
endocarditis and hematogenous joint
infection should be considered on an
individual basis in conjunction
with the health care provider
most familiar with the clients
specific condition (CDHO, 2015).

Medical
History

Referral to
MD (if
required)

Implementati
on
of DH Care

The Dental Hygienist must recognize

medical conditions that may require
antibiotic prophylaxis
The Dental Hygienist should work in
collaboration with the clients physician to
determine if there is a need for antibiotic
prophylaxis prior to dental hygiene care

CLIENT COMPLIANCE
All of the indications, benefits, and potential consequences of
antibiotic prophylaxis should be explained to the client prior
to obtaining their informed consent
If the client refuses the need for antibiotic prophylaxis, an
inter-professional decision between the dental hygienist,
physician, and possibly the dentist should be made,
regarding whether or not to proceed with care
If the client has not taken their pre-medication 30-60 minutes
prior to treatment, it is the Dental Hygienists decision to
recognize that proceeding with care is not recommended or
in the clients best interest in terms of safety
However; if the dental procedure is an emergency, the
antibiotic can be administered immediately before the
appointment commences
(CDHO,

Its noted on the CDHO guidelines its recommendations are

based off the current guidelines of:
- The American Heart Association (AHA)
- American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons (AAOS)
(CDHO, 2013)

(Reznik, 2015)

Important to
Note
The Guideline does not contain
recommendations for specific medical
conditions (CDHO, 2015). If the Dental
Hygienist is considering the need for
antibiotic prophylaxis prior to
implementation for a specific medical
condition, the CDHO Knowledge Network
contains these recommendations (CDHO,
2015).

IN CONCLUSION
Dental Hygienists should be continually checking
CDHO guidelines for updates &/or revisions
Reference & utilize the guidelines, the DHs
professional judgement, the MDs
recommendations, & the clients specific
condition to decide upon the best course of
action in terms of antibiotic prophylaxis