Dental Hygiene Program
Student Handbook
2014 - 2015
Kirkwood Community College
Allied Health Department
319-398-5566
1-800-332-2055
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A Note from the Dental Hygiene Program Faculty:
Welcome to the dental hygiene program. You have chosen a challenging and rewarding career. When you
graduate and enter the profession, you will function as a key member of the dental health team, a registered
dental hygienist.
The dental hygiene faculty welcomes you to a great profession. The course of five semesters will be busy,
challenging and very rewarding. We would like to be of assistance to you in any way we can in making
adjustments as you work toward your goal of becoming a dental hygienist Please keep us informed if you
have questions or problems arise. We are here to help.
The dental hygiene program faculty believes that each student should accept the motive to render his or her
best service at all times in order to advance the oral health of the public without regard to personal reward.
Through their guidance, the faculty hopes that each student will develop an appreciation for quality dental
care and will strive at all times to provide this care for their patients.
This handbook has been designed to provide you with initial information about expectations of students and
of faculty. Please contact the dental hygiene program director if you have any questions regarding materials
in this handbook.
We look forward to working with each of you as you progress toward a career as a dental hygienist.
Sincerely,
Shaunda L. Clark, CDA, RDH, BS, M.Ed
Program Director
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Section I
HANDBOOK INFORMATION .................................................................. 5
Student Responsibilities
Kirkwood Student Handbook
Section II
ADMISSION INFORMATION................................................................... 6
Admission Requirements
Health Physical
Personal Health
Basic Life Support (CPR) Policy
Infection Control – OSHA – Exposures
Bloodborne Pathogens
Health Insurance
Felony
Transfer Credit Evaluation
Waivers
Advanced Standing
High School Health Academy Articulation
Pre-course Work
Weather
Section III
A.
PROGRAM INFORMATION
Program Information ........................................................................... 13
Program Description
Job Opportunities
Preparation
Statement of Mission, Goals and Philosophy
Ethics
Program Competencies
Essential Functions
Curriculum
Course Descriptions
Classroom/Lab/Clinic .......................................................................... 29
Classroom/Lab/Clinic Policies
Attendance
Lab Procedures
Clinic Courses
Clinic Attire
Communications
Confidentiality
Professionalism
Clinical Compliance
Registration/Grades ............................................................................. 35
Registration and Change of Registration
Academic Requirements
Grades
Withdrawal and Readmission
Part-time Status
Scholarships
Grievance and Academic Appeal Policy
B.
C.
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Section IV
PROGRAM COMPLETION ................................................................... 41
Academic and Graduation Requirements
Student/Graduate Input
Licensure Requirements
Articulations
Pinning Ceremonies
Section V
GENERAL INFORMATION ................................................................... 44
Contact us
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Section I
HANDBOOK INFORMATION
This handbook has been prepared as a special resource containing information pertinent to the program.
If you have questions, need assistance or clarification on any policies, procedures, or requirements, you
are strongly encouraged to see your program director. No rule or statement in this handbook is intended
to discriminate nor will this program knowingly, for the purpose of clinical experience, place students in
other agencies which discriminate on the basis of sex, race, color, creed, national origin, religion, age,
disability, sexual orientation, or marital status.
STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES
Each student is responsible for familiarity and compliance with information appearing in this program
handbook as well as the Kirkwood Community College Student Handbook. Failure to read the information
will not be considered an excuse for non-compliance. The Kirkwood Student Handbook may be obtained
from the Allied Health Department office in Linn Hall 2164.
Policies in this program handbook have been adopted by the faculty. If a student finds that an extenuating
circumstance might justify a waiver of a particular policy, the student may petition the director of the
program. The program reserves the right to change policies or revise curricula as necessary due to
unanticipated circumstances. Students registered in technical courses will be informed of curricular
changes.
KIRKWOOD STUDENT HANDBOOK
Refer to the Kirkwood Student Handbook for the following policies:
Academic Information
American Disabilities Act
Cheating and Plagiarism
College policies & procedures
College Services -, Counseling, Personal
Achievement Tutoring, Writing Center, etc
Confidentiality
EEO
Equal Rights
Financial Aid
General Information
Outreach services
Sexual Harassment.
Student Conduct
Student Life
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Section II
ADMISSION INFORMATION
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
1
Complete a Kirkwood Community College application, listing Dental Hygiene as your
major. This can be done online or mail to Enrollment Services 216 Kirkwood Hall.
Students may apply to one Kirkwood program at any time. The newest application
automatically cancels any previous application.
2
Attend program conference. These are scheduled as one-hour program conferences
monthly. Dates of upcoming program conferences are listed on the Kirkwood website and
are posted outside the Allied Health office in Linn Hall 2164. Please sign up to attend on the
website.
3
Provide evidence of academic readiness
Use one of the following two (2) options for meeting this step.
Option A
Placement test: Take a placement test (within the last three years). The COMPASS test
can be taken at Kirkwood in the Advising, Testing and Transfer Center, 2055 Cedar Hall.
The COMPASS placement test covers reading, writing and math skills. COMPASS is
available on a walk-in basis. Please allow a minimum of two hours for the exam. Photo
identification is necessary. The Center is open Monday-Thursday 8 a.m. – 8 p.m. and
Friday 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Option B
Degree option: Have earned an associate’s degree, bachelor’s degree or higher. Official
college transcript must be on file with Kirkwood Community College, Enrollment Services
Department.
4
HOBET V
Take the Health Occupations Basic Entrance Test (HOBET). Students must pass with
required adjusted individual score of 67.3% in order to be accepted into the program.
5
Complete prerequisite courses with a minimum C- grade.
Intro to Chemistry, 3 cr., Lab, 1 cr.
Intro to Math, 2 cr., or equivalent
Anatomy & Physiology I 4 cr
Microcomputer Literacy, 1 cr.
*Prerequisite courses need to be taken within 5 years of start date of program
6
Submit admission checklist: Students MUST submit their admission checklist to the
Allied Health office when all admission requirements are completed. Applicants meeting
requirements are accepted in order of application date. Twenty-four students are accepted
each fall semester. After the program is full, students are accepted to a numbered waiting
list. The first 24 on the waiting list will be accepted for the following fall. Students are
informed once a year of their wait list number. If an accepted student cancels, students are
called off the wait list by number. A student cannot be accepted to the program until all
prerequisite courses are complete.
7
The following is required before or shortly after entering the program:
 A completed health physical and current immunization record on file in the Campus
Health office.
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



8
Verification of the hepatitis B vaccination verification or medical waiver on file.
Criminal Background Check
CPR Training
Please refer to the Dental Hygiene website under Current Students and Compliance
Guide for further information.
Previous Coursework:
Students who have previously completed Dental Assisting or Dental Hygiene Program
coursework, either KCC or another accredited institution, need to meet with the program
director prior to enrolling in first semester courses to get applicable courses transferred. No
technical course older than 5 years will be accepted for transfer. No technical courses will
be accepted for transfer after the student has enrolled in and started the first semester
courses. Technical courses are those starting with DEN or DHY.
PERSONAL HEALTH
Good personal health is necessary for dental hygiene students. The following policies refer to personal
health:

Hepatitis Vaccine-requirements explained in compliance section.

Communicable Disease-Students who contract a communicable disease or manifest an active
lesion must inform the lead clinical course instructor. Appropriate precautions and or
postponement of patient treatment will be decided upon by the lead clinical course instructor and
the program director

Illness-Students who become ill and cannot attend class or clinic must follow the written protocol
for attendance as explained on page 26 of the Dental Hygiene Program Student Handbook

Extended illness-Students who experience an extended illness must discuss possible alternative
arrangements for completing course requirements with the lead course instructor and program
director.

Chronic Communicable Diseases-Students with identified chronic diseases may attend college
whenever, through reasonable accommodation, the risk of transmission of the disease and or the
risk of further injury to the students is sufficiently remote. Students may be unable to treat clinical
patients if disease transmission is possible.

Pregnancy/Parenthood - Students may be exposed to radiation, bacteria, and chemicals. These
agents may be hazardous to a developing fetus. Students are informed of these work-related
hazards by way of signature on a Kirkwood Community College Allied Health Department Student
Statement. All physicians’ appointments are to be scheduled during non-class/non-clinic times.
Students will need to discuss appropriate arrangements/options
for meeting course/clinical requirement during pregnancy. Appropriate child care arrangements
will be made as students are not allowed to bring children to class, lab or clinic session.

Extended Personal Leave-Students needing personal leave for such reasons as bereavement or
illness need to discuss options with the program director.
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TRANSFER CREDIT EVALUATION
College courses taken prior to beginning the program at Kirkwood may be evaluated for possible transfer
credit. To have a transcript evaluated, the student must request an official transcript from each college be
sent to:
Kirkwood Community College
Enrollment Services
6301 Kirkwood Blvd. SW
Cedar Rapids, IA 52406-9973
Transcripts sent directly to the program faculty are not acceptable. Once the registrar has evaluated the
official transcript, students will receive a Kirkwood transcript listing accepted courses.
WAIVER OF COURSE REQUIREMENTS or CREDIT BY EXAMINATION
The program faculty will review credits awarded by the Credit by Examination process. This may be done
either through the College Level Examination Program (CLEP) or by department examinations where
available. Please refer to the college catalog for additional information. Questions regarding waiver of
course requirements and/or credit by exam should be directed to the program director. A student wanting
to have technical courses waived (courses beginning with DEN or DHY) need to meet with the program
director prior to beginning the program. Waiver of courses will only be done if the courses were taken
within the last 5 years.
ADVANCED STANDING
Students who have had formal dental assisting experience prior to entering the dental hygiene program
may receive credit for the experience. This experience must have been gained within the past three years.
Some dental hygiene program courses may be waived based on successful completion of a competency
examination and/or successful completion of a proficiency examination. A listing of specific courses that
may be waived may be obtained from the program director upon acceptance to the program. Waiver of
courses based on previous experience must be completed prior to registration for the specific course.
HIGH SCHOOL HEALTH ACADEMY ARTICULATION
Course work earned while a student is in the High School Health Academy program is on the student's
Kirkwood transcript and may meet specific program requirements.
PRE-COURSE WORK
Students are encouraged to begin taking selected courses prior to beginning their program. Any of the
general education courses listed on the curriculum sheet and marked with an asterisk, may be taken at
any time. However, students should see their program advisor, director, or admission associate before
registering for classes. There will be no substitution of courses in the curriculum unless approved by
program director. General Education courses including Health Skills I and Professionals in Health must be
taken within 5 years of program start date.
WEATHER
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The college may cancel or postpone classes due to weather conditions. This will be announced on local
Cedar Rapids, Iowa City, and Waterloo radio and TV stations. (Listen for Kirkwood Community College
NOT College Community Schools) Classes will not normally be made-up. Any test or activities scheduled
that day will be held on the next regular class day. If the college delays the start time, classes will begin at
that time, [even if it is in the middle of the normal class time]. Faculty will provide instructions in the course
syllabi for clinic courses and unusual circumstances. If students decide they cannot come to class or clinic
due to weather conditions in their area, the appropriate faculty must be notified. Students are expected to
make appropriate judgments based on their situation. Each student situation will be evaluated individually
by faculty.
Because clinical experiences are held at the College of Dentistry in Iowa City and this facility does not
close due to inclement weather, students will abide by the policies set by the clinical facility. The student
must make an individual decision about traveling to the clinic site. If the student feels it is too dangerous
for them to travel to the clinic site because of weather and or road conditions they need to notify the lead
clinical instructor and the clinic clerk at the facility as to their absence.
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Section III A
PROGRAM INFORMATION
DENTAL HYGIENE PROGRAM DESCRIPTION
The Kirkwood dental hygiene program prepares students to become part of the dental health team. The
dental hygienist is a primary health care professional. The dental hygienist functions as an oral health
educator and clinical care provider. The dental hygienist provides preventive, educational and therapeutic
service to control oral diseases.
Dental hygienists provide oral health care services, for general and specialty practices, programs for
research, professional education, community health, hospital and institutional care, federal programs, the
armed services, and dental product promotion.
While in the program students will gain knowledge and clinical skills necessary to function as a health
professional. Knowledge of the field is gained through a science-based program. Emphasis is placed on
Human Anatomy and Physiology, Biology, Chemistry, and Dental Sciences. Clinical experiences are
conducted at the University of Iowa College of Dentistry. Clinical experiences will include patient
assessment, obtaining vital signs, scaling, root planning, radiography, polishing, fluoride therapy, sealant
application, and accessory treatment.
Upon successful completion of the program the graduate is entitled to take the National Board Dental
Hygiene Examination and regional clinical board of the student’s choice. An Associate in Applied Science in
Dental Hygiene is awarded to graduates.
Entry Time:
Length:
Award:
Fall Semester
Two years (4 semesters plus 1 summer)
Associate of Applied Science
Accreditation
Kirkwood’s Dental Hygiene program is accredited by the Commission of Dental Accreditation, a specialized
accrediting body recognized by the United States Department of Education. The Commission on
Dental Accreditation can be contacted at 312-440-4653 or 211 East Chicago Avenue, Chicago, IL
60601.
The Commission on Dental Accreditation will review complaints that relate to a program’s compliance with
the accreditation standards. The Commission is interested in the sustained quality and continued
improvement of dental and dental-related education programs but does not intervene on behalf of
individuals or act as a court of appeal for individuals in matters of admission, appointment, promotion
or dismissal of faculty, staff or students.
A copy of the appropriate accreditation standards and/or the Commission’s policy and procedure for
submission of complaints may be obtained by contacting the Commission at 211 East Chicago
Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611 or by calling 1-800-621-8099 extension 4653.
(01/94; Revised: 08/02)
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JOB OPPORTUNITIES
Dental hygienists are employed in private practices, general, specialty, and group practice or clinics,
hospitals, dental product companies, dental insurance companies, research, various public settings and
professional education. The employment outlook for dental hygienists is positive within the state and
nationwide. Salaries depend on type of employment and location.
PREPARATION
Employment or volunteer experience in the field of dentistry is beneficial. Students entering this program
would find the following high school courses helpful: Biology, Chemistry, Psychology and Communication.
STATEMENT OF MISSION, GOALS AND PHILOSOPHY
Statement of Mission
The mission of the dental hygiene program is to prepare students forl employment as a dental hygienist and
to provide the community and the profession of dentistry with competent personnel.
Program Goals
The goals of the educational program are:
1) To prepare qualified graduates with entry level skills for the professional job market.
2) To accomplish this goal the program will:
a) provide the skills and knowledge necessary for entry level employment of graduates in all aspects of
Dental Hygiene.
b) provide graduates with professional behavior.
c) be current with needs and trends in the field.
d) satisfy communities of interest.
e) provide graduates will enter the workforce as a dental hygienist or further their education.
f) provide graduates who recognize the importance of ongoing service to the community and the
profession through ethical practice and lifelong learning.
Program Philosophy
In fulfilling its mission the Dental Hygiene program believes that:
1. Every individual is born with the desire to learn and improve throughout life.
2. Exposure to a variety of classroom, lab and clinical experiences strengthens a students'
knowledge of dentistry and increases their critical thinking, problem solving and decision
making skills.
3. Education should be enjoyable and challenging and will be facilitated by clear objectives and
evaluations in an open environment.
4. Technical skills need to be practiced in a lab setting to a level of competence prior to clinical
experiences.
5. Technical courses need to be completed in proper sequence, to ensure competency in basic skills
prior to more complex learning.
6. Proper communication skills, professionalism and an understanding of ethical standards of
practice are essential to the successful completion of the program.
We also believe that your dental hygiene education begins at Kirkwood Community College but will
continue throughout your professional career. As you progress through the dental hygiene program
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the faculty will assist you to fulfill your potential but the ultimate responsibility will always remain with
you, the individual.
ETHICS
The conditions of patients should be discussed only with the professional personnel directly connected with
the care of the patients. Discussion of personal affairs of patients, of the dental hygienist, the Dental College
and private dental offices in public places is a violation of the code of ethics. Strict professional relations
must be observed between the dental hygienist and the dental staff (at the Dental College and private dental
offices) and the dental students during the hours on duty. All accidents or errors, which occur during clinical
practice, must be reported to your instructor. Students do not leave their clinical area of assignment during
duty hours without permission from your instructor. Students are NOT to sign or witness the signature of
patients at any time. Misconduct (on or off campus), negligence in complying to the rules and regulations of
the school, habitual absence from assigned work, poor class work, and unfavorable influence are sufficient
reasons for suspension or dismissal. Students who steal items such as supplies, equipment or other’s
property will be dismissed from the program. Students are expected to care for school supplies and
equipment, just as they would for their future employers. Students will be charged for supplies and
equipment that is NOT properly cared for.
As future members of the dental hygiene profession, each student should consider it her or his responsibility
to insist upon and maintain the following ethical standards:
*utilize the highest professional knowledge, judgment, and ability to provide oral health care
*serve all patients without discrimination
*hold all professional patient relationships in confidence
*utilize every opportunity to increase public understanding of oral health
*participate in the Student American Dental Hygienists’ Association and uphold its purpose
*exchange professional knowledge with other health professionals
*represent the dental hygiene profession by maintaining the highest standards of personal conduct
DENTAL HYGIENE PROGRAM STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES
Each course in the curriculum is intended to help the student develop the knowledge, judgment, skills, and
attitudes which are necessary to become competent practitioners. Each course should be regarded by the
student as a challenge to him or her to obtain from the subject all that his or her capabilities will permit. The
content and learning experiences provide the foundation for the student’s continued formal education,
independent study and professional growth.
The curriculum is designed to allow sufficient time for each student to acquire specific content in scientific
principles of dental hygiene practice and to develop proficiency in performing all functions. Through the
basic educational program, the student should acquire knowledge of and proficiency required of members of
the dental health team. The graduate is prepared to assume delegated responsibility for providing patient
care under the supervision of a dentist.
The student should demonstrate professional behavior in relationship to personal interactions. The following
criteria are used by faculty to determine appropriate conduct for a professional person:
A. The student acts courteously toward patients, visitors, faculty, staff and other students as
demonstrated by
1. greeting the patient or visitor on arrival
2. introducing the patient or visitor to faculty members when appropriate and
3. listening with apparent interest to the statements of others
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B. The student expresses concern for the patient’s expressed and or unexpressed need. This is
determined by
1. maintaining eye contact with the patient
2. using appropriate vocal and facial expressions
C. The student demonstrates tact in disagreements with staff, faculty, patients and other students as
demonstrated by
1. not scowling at persons giving constructive criticisms
2. not disagreeing with others in presence of patients
3. not calling others by unkind names
4. selecting appropriate conditions for discussing problems
D. The student maintains an efficient treatment/business atmosphere as demonstrated by
1. conversation directed at obtaining information necessary and pertinent to patient
treatment
2. actions related to patient treatment rather than personal interest or gain
E. The student shows interest in the job or task at hand. This is demonstrated by
1. choice of words
2. facial expression
3. attention focused on task
F. The student respects the views of patients, students, faculty and staff by being attentive to
presentations of others.
G. The student maintains honest behavior by not misrepresenting any situation to staff, students,
patients, or faculty.
H.
The student protects the patient’s right to privacy. This is demonstrated by not disclosing
information obtained during the course of the professional relationship with a patient such that a
particular patient could be identified.
I.
The student demonstrates maturity as indicated by accepting responsibility for his or her own
actions, words, or mistakes.
J.
The student demonstrates dependability by being prompt and punctual for scheduled classes,
clinics, meetings, and or appointments.
K.
The student is self-directing. This is demonstrated by
1. helping other students in their patient treatment or clinic duties.
2. using unscheduled time to maintain equipment, study or review patient records.
L.
The student is non-prejudiced in the interactions with staff, faculty, and patients. This is
demonstrated by
1. uniformly acting and reacting to all others.
2. not discriminating in the quality of treatment of persons different in race, religion, sex, or
health status.
DENTAL HYGIENE PROGRAM OUTCOMES (COMPETENCIES)
A) Upon successful completion of the Dental Hygiene program, the graduate will be competent in the
following areas:
1. preventive measures
2. patient assesment measures
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3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
maintain asepsis
intraoral procedures
radiographic procedures
laboratory activities
pain control measures
professional behavior
General Education Outcomes (Objectives)
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
Communicate-students will use effective communication skills
Students will understand and apply fundamental mathematic principles
Students will think logically and critically
Students will understand and apply fundamental scientific principles
Students will understand human society and cross cultural variation and perspectives
Students will have knowledge of and an appreciation for the human condition
Students will recognize the rights and responsibilities of citizenship
Students will possess skills for further learning and the general workplace
B) Technical Standards/Physical Demands
Listed below are the technical standards/physical demands required to perform the technical task for dental
hygiene students, either unaided, or with the assistance of a reasonable accommodation. These are the
essential functions that constitute fundamental requirements and reasonable physical qualifications a
student needs for admission to the Dental Hygiene program for clinical education.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
1
Comprehension - Must be able to read, follow verbal directions, understand and apply abstract
concepts from general studies, biomedical, dental hygiene and clinical sciences.
2
Analysis - Must be able to interpret patient findings, recognize anomalies and make decisions that
affect patient care. Must be able to visualize and apply spatial
relationships to instrumentation
skills, radiographic skills and a variety of clinical skills.
3
Writing - Must be able to write clear and legible notations on clinical records including patient charts.
Must be able to develop accurate, complete drawings, and written descriptions of clinical findings.
Must be able to organize thoughts and ideas into written essays and research papers.
4
Calculation - Must be able to measure and mix chemicals, dental materials and various clinical
agents. Must be able to compute dental indices and statistics and other mathematical computations
required in classroom or clinical procedures.
5
Vision - Must be able to read charts, records, small print and typed and handwritten notations. Must
be able to observe changes in patient status and distinguish colors both extra and intraorally. Must
be able to discern shades of black and white for dental radiographic interpretation. Must be able to
read millimeter markings at a distance of 8-12 inches.
6
Speech - Must be able to speak clearly, understandably and effectively to patients, dental health
team members and community groups.
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7
Touch - Must be able to distinguish between various textures, sizes, and shapes and be able to
palpate tissue during the extra and intraoral examination.
8
Physical demands required:
 Reach, move and adjust x-ray tube located at a height of approximately 54 inches from the floor.

Reach into darkroom tanks for processing located at a height of 36-40 inches.

Give clear verbal commands to the patient while performing dental hygiene services and at a
distance of 6-10 feet from the x-ray chair while located behind a lead protected exposure control
wall.

Hear a patient at a distance of 6-10 feet while located behind a lead protected exposure control
wall.

Operate rheostat control with feet.

Have use of hands and fingers and adequate range of motion to safely perform all necessary
instrumentation in providing preventive dental hygiene services.

Sit on operator’s stool on a seat approximately 19 inches from floor.

Arms proportionately long enough to fit across own body and reach head and neck area of
patient

Not currently using illegal drugs or alcohol or under the influence of either.

Not allergic to film processing chemicals (developed and fixer solutions) or personal protective
gloves, masks and eyewear used for “universal precautions.”
Students who think they do not possess one or more of the abilities should seek assistance from the
Kirkwood Learning Services Office concerning any flexibility in program requirement. When possible,
reasonable accommodation of a disability will be discussed and approached in a manner appropriate to the
individual’s needs.
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DENTAL HYGIENE Degree
Fall Start
Lecture
Course Name
Hours
Human Anatomy/Physiology I*
48
Microcomputer Literacy*
8
Introduction to Chemistry*
48
Introduction to Chemistry Lab*
0
Introduction to Math*
32
Term Total
136
Term
Term
Pre-Req
Pre-Req
Pre-req
Pre-Req
Pre-Req
New
Course #
BIO-168
BCA-189
CHM-110
CHM-111
MAT-731
Lab
Hours
32
16
0
32
0
80
Clinic
Hours
0
0
0
0
0
0
Total
Credit Hours
4.0
1.0
3.0
1.0
2.0
11.0
Fall
Fall
Fall
Fall
Fall
Fall
Fall
DEN-100
DEN-120
DEN-130
DEN-200
DHY-173
HSC-107
HSC-210
Fundamentals of Dentistry
Dental Anatomy*
Head and Neck Anatomy*
Preventive Dentistry
Dental Hygiene I
Professionals in Health*
Health Skills I*
Term Total
32
48
24
24
32
32
8
200
48
0
0
16
0
0
16
80
0
0
0
0
96
0
0
96
3.5
3.0
1.5
2.0
4.0
2.0
1.0
17.0
Spring
Spring
Spring
Spring
Spring
BIO-173
CHM-132
DEN-300
DHY-186
DHY-140
Human Anatomy/Physiology II*
Intro Organic & Biochemistry*
Dental Radiography
Dental Hygiene II
General & Oral Pathology
Term Total
48
48
32
32
32
192
32
32
32
0
0
96
0
0
0
96
0
96
4.0
4.0
3.0
4.0
2.0
17.0
Summer
Summer
Summer
Summer
Summer
BIO-186
DEN-220
DHY-220
DHY-270
DHY-285
Microbiology*
Dental Nutrition
Dental Materials
Local Anesthesia for the DH
Dental Hygiene III
Term Total
48
16
16
8
16
104
32
0
16
16
0
64
0
0
0
0
96
96
4.0
1.0
1.5
1.0
3.0
10.5
Fall
Fall
Fall
Fall
Fall
DHY-134
DHY-211
DHY-250
DHY-296
SPC-101
Therapeutics and Pain Control
Periodontology
Community Dental Health
Dental Hygiene IV
Fundamentals of Oral Comm*
Term Total
32
32
16
16
48
144
0
0
16
0
0
16
0
0
0
192
0
192
2.0
2.0
1.5
5.0
3.0
13.5
Spring
Spring
Spring
Spring
Spring
DHY-306
ELEC
ENG-105
PSY-111
SOC-110
Dental Hygiene V
Humanities Elective*
Composition I*
Intro to Psychology*
Introduction to Sociology*
Term Total
16
48
48
48
48
208
0
0
0
0
0
0
192
0
0
0
0
192
5.0
3.0
3.0
3.0
3.0
17.0
984
336
672
86.0
14.3
PROGRAM TOTAL
CREDIT AVERAGE PER TERM
*Courses may be taken before beginning program.
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Lab ratio 1:15/1:6
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The following are course descriptions for the Dental Hygiene technical courses. For
descriptions of other courses, please access online at www.kirkwood.edu/catalog.
DEN-100 Fundamentals of Dentistry (3.5)
Provides the foundations of knowledge necessary to begin a study in the dental field. Introduction to
instrumentation, dental specialties and special needs patients are discussed. Introductory oral hygiene
instruction and basic radiography are provided. Credits: 3.5, Hours: (2/3/0/0), Coreq: HSC-107, HSC-210,
DEN-120, DEN-130; Arts & Sciences Elective Code: B
DEN-110 Dental Terminology (2)
Enlists a comprehensive study of dental terminology for dental program preparation, career entry or
review. Explains the composition of dental terms by exploring prefix, root combination and suffix divisions.
Discusses common dental procedures, practices and disease processes. Credits: 2, Hours: (2/0/0/0), Arts
& Sciences Elective Code: B
DEN-120 Dental Anatomy (3)
Introduces students to basics of embryology, histology, terms and anatomy of the oral cavity including a
detailed study of crown and root morphology of both primary and permanent dentition. Credits: 3, Hours:
(3/0/0/0), Arts & Sciences Elective Code: B
DEN-130 Head and Neck Anatomy (1.5)
Utilizes a systems approach to the gross anatomy of the head and neck with emphasis on the maxilla,
mandible, oral tissues, neuromuscular and circulatory function, supporting structures and the
temporomandibular joint. Credits: 1.5, Hours: (1/1/0/0), Arts & Sciences Elective Code: B
DEN-200 Preventive Dentistry (2)
Provides an introduction to dental disease, the causes and methods for prevention. An intense focus on
dental caries and preliminary information on periodontal disease. Students learn to utilize patient
assessment techniques and provide oral health information. Credits: 2, Hours: (1.5/1/0/0), Coreq: DEN120, DEN-130; Arts & Sciences Elective Code: B
DEN-220 Dental Nutrition (1)
Study of the role of diet upon oral structures and application of the role of dietary analysis to the treatment
plan of a dental patient. Emphasis is placed on analysis of the complete diet and preventive
recommendations. Credits: 1, Hours: (1/0/0/0), Prereq: DEN-110, DEN-120; Coreq: DEN-200; Arts &
Sciences Elective Code: B
DEN-300 Dental Radiography (3)
Provides students with principles and techniques of dental radiography. Students receive practical
experience on manikins and selected patients. Credits: 3, Hours: (2/2/0/0), Prereq: DEN-100, DEN-110,
DEN-200; Arts & Sciences Elective Code: B
DEN-924 Honors Project (1)
Allows a qualified honors student to pursue a special concentration of study under the guidance of a
faculty member. Requires completion of an honors project contract. May be taken more than once.
Credits: 1, Hours: (1/0/0/0), Prereq: none; Coreq: none; Arts & Sciences Elective Code: A;
Comments: Requires approval of supervising professor and dean Lecture (16.00).
DEN-928 Independent Study (1-3)
Provides readings, papers and basic research or other projects under the individual guidance of a
staff member. Credits: 1, Hours: (1/0/0/0), Prereq: none; Coreq: none; Arts & Sciences Elective
Code: A; Comments: Permission of instructor, dean Lecture (16.00).
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DHY-134 Therapeutics and Pain Control (2)
Provides students with knowledge of chemotherapeutics used in dentistry and the mechanisms of
drugs in the body. Students are then able to understand manifestations of drug administration in
dental treatment. Credits: 2, Hours: (2/0/0/0), Prereq: DHY-285; Arts & Sciences Elective Code: B
DHY-140 General and Oral Pathology (2)
An introduction to the general principles of pathology for dental hygienists with emphasis on
specifics of oral pathology; building upon and applying biomedical science knowledge to the
diagnosis and treatment of oral and maxillofacial diseases. Terminology is a main focus throughout
the course. Credits: 2, Hours: (2/0/0/0), Prereq: DEN-120, DEN-130; Coreq: DEN-300, DHY-186;
Arts & Sciences Elective Code: B
DHY-173 Dental Hygiene I (4)
Provides an introduction to the clinical portion of the dental profession. Emphasis is on skills
necessary for preliminary patient care including health histories, basic instrumentation, and legal and
ethical issues. Manikin and patient practice are utilized. Credits: 4, Hours: (2/0/6/0), Arts & Sciences
Elective Code: B
DHY-186 Dental Hygiene II (4)
Provides experience in the application of dental hygiene techniques on a variety of patients in a
clinical setting, Clinical experience includes oral prophylaxis, fluoride therapy and oral
physiotherapy. Didactic training encompasses new clinical skills, assessment, treatment planning
and effective communication skills. Credits: 4, Hours: (2/0/6/0), Prereq: DHY-173; Arts & Sciences
Elective Code: B
DHY-211 Periodontology (2)
Introduction to the aspects of periodontal disease, the disease process and management of
periodontal patients. Emphasis is placed on periodontal instrument techniques and surgery as
performed by the dentist. Credits: 2, Hours: (2/0/0/0), Prereq: DEN-120, DEN-200; Arts & Sciences
Elective Code: B
DHY-220 Dental Materials (1)
Introduces students to materials utilized in the dental field. Includes handling and preparation of
specific materials. Prepares students for clinical procedures to be performed on patients. Credits: 1,
Hours: (.5/1/0/0), Prereq: DEN-100, DEN-120; Arts & Sciences Elective Code: B
DHY-250 Community Dental Health (1.5)
Provides concepts of health education and pro-motion, community dental health, and public health
dentistry with an emphasis on assessment, planning, implementation and evaluation of community
oral health promotion. Credits: 1.5, Hours: (1/1/0/0), Prereq: DEN-100, DEN-200, DHY-285; Arts &
Sciences Elective Code: B
DHY-274 Local Anesthesia for the Dental Hygienist (1.5)
Learn basic concepts for safe and effective ad-ministration of local anesthesia, including hands-on
preparation in techniques used in the practice of administering local anesthesia. Credits: 1.5, Hours:
(0.5/2/0/0), Prereq: DEN-120, DEN-130; Arts & Sciences Elective Code: B
DHY-285 Dental Hygiene III (3)
Emphasis on treatment of patients with moderate dental disease, continued application of diagnostic
information and treatment planning by student. Credits: 3, Hours: (1/0/6/0), Prereq: DHY-186; Arts &
Sciences Elective Code: B
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DHY-296 Dental Hygiene IV (5)
Provides continued development of oral prophylaxis skills. Emphasis is placed on accessory
treatment, outside of a routine prophylactic appointment, and on aided scaling procedures. Credits:
5, Hours: (1/0/12/0), Prereq: DHY-285; Arts & Sciences Elective Code: B
DHY-306 Dental Hygiene V (5)
Prepares students for transition to practice. Board preparation material, credentialing, advanced
instrumentation and accessory procedure techniques are taught. Current trends in the dental field
are discussed. Credits: 5, Hours: (1/0/12/0), Prereq: DHY-296; Arts & Sciences Elective Code: B
DHY-910 Dental Hygiene Clinical Enrichment (1)
Provides focused reinforcement in the clinical portion of the dental hygiene profession, with
emphasis placed on skills necessary for patient care. Content includes basic instrumentation and
instruction in radiographic techniques. Manikin and patient practice are utilized for learning
experience. Successful completion of this course fulfills the requirement to re-enter the second year
of the Dental Hygiene program at Kirkwood or the remediation requirement for a clinical board
examination. Credits: 1, Hours: (0/0/3/0), Prereq: DHY-173, DHY-186; Arts & Sciences Elective
Code: B
DHY-924 Honors Project (1)
Allows a qualified honors student to pursue a special concentration of study under the guidance of a
faculty member. Requires completion of an honors project contract. May be taken more than once.
Credits: 1, Hours: (1/0/0/0), Prereq: none; Coreq: none; Arts & Sciences Elective Code: A;
Comments: Requires approval of supervising professor and dean Lecture (16.00).
DHY-928 Independent Study (1-3)
Provides readings, papers and basic research or other projects under the individual guidance of a
staff member. Credits: 1, Hours: (1/0/0/0), Prereq: none; Coreq: none; Arts & Sciences Elective
Code: A; Comments: Permission of instructor, dean Lecture (16.00).
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Associate of Applied Science Degree
Humanities Requirement
Students may select from the following courses to meet the 3-semester credit hour requirement.
Courses in italics are also Associate of Arts core courses.
Courses with a (D) are approved Diversity courses.
ART
ART-101 Art Appreciation
ART-203 Art History I
ART-204 Art History II
ART-173 Ceramics
ART-133 Drawing
ART-143 Painting
ART-157 Printmaking
ART-163 Sculpture
ART-184 Photography
ART-186 Digital Photography
ART-301 Design Fundamentals
COMMUNICATION
ENG-221 Creative Writing
DRAMA
DRA-101 Introduction to Theatre
DRA-130 Acting I
DRA-163 Technical Theatre
FOREIGN LANGUAGES
FLS-118 Spanish for Professionals: Hospitality
FLS-128 Conversational Spanish
FLF-141 or FLF-142 Elementary French I or II (all 4 credits)
FLS-141 or FLS-142 Elementary Spanish I or II (D)
FLG-141 or FLG-142 Elementary German I or II (D)
ASL-141 or ASL-171 American Sign Lanaguage I or II (D)
HUMANITIES
HUM-116 Encounters in Humanities
CLS-180 American Pluralism
ANT-105 Introduction to Cultural Anthropology (D)
HUM-105 Working in America
CLS-190 Culture and Technology
CLS-192 Communication & Culture (D)
DRA-116 Film Analysis
DRA-117 Film Topics
DRA-125 Introduction to Play Analysis
HUM-123 U.S. Film History
HUM-124 World Film History
HUM-142 Popular Culture
INTERDISCIPLINARY STUDIES
BUS-223 Perspectives in International Studies
GLS120 Education Experience Abroad
MKT-187 Perspectives in International Marketing
CLS-140 Understanding Cultures: The Mideast (D)
CLS-151 Understanding Cultures: Latin America (D)
CLS-159 Understanding Cultures: Indigenous Central America (D)
CLS-162 Understanding Cultures: Pacific Societies (D)
CLS-167 Understanding Cultures: Modern China (D)
CLS-165 Understanding Cultures: Modern Japan (D)
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CLS-171 Understanding Cultures: Sub-Saharan Africa (D)
CLS-211 Cultures in Transition: Central Europe
LITERATURE
LIT-203 Forms of Literature: The Story Cycle
LIT-204 Forms of Literature: Nonfiction
LIT-205 Forms of Literature: Drama
LIT-206 Forms of Literature: Fiction
LIT-207 Forms of Literature: Poetry
LIT-208 Forms of Literature: New Media
LIT-209 Forms of Literature: Film Adaptation
LIT-222 Literature & Culture: American Dreams (D)
LIT-226 Literary Themes: Search for Identity
LIT-224 Literature and Culture: Women and Work (D)
LIT-225 Literary Themes: Beyond Bartelby
LIT-227 World Poetry
LIT-105 Children's Literature
LIT-158 Literature of the African Peoples (D)
LIT-945 Selected Topics
MUSIC
MUS-100 Music Appreciation
MUA-300 – MUA-319 Applied Music (Private Music Lessons*)
MUS-140 Concert Choir
MUS-157 Vocal Jazz Ensemble
MUS-145 Concert Band
MUS-150 Chamber Ensemble - 1 credit/semester*
MUS-163 Instrumental Jazz Ensemble
MUS-165 Jazz Combo - 1 credit/semester*
MUS-208 American Popular Music and Jazz
MUS-209 Topics in Western Music History
*(A total of 3 credit hours are required)
PHILOSOPHY AND RELIGION
PHI-101 Introduction to Philosophy
PHI-111 Basic Reasoning
PHI-105 Introduction to Ethics
PHI-125 Native American Philosophies (D)
PHI-126 Chinese Philosophies (D)
PHI-130 Philosophy of Human Nature
PHI-150 Social and Political Philosophy
PHI-160 Environmental Ethics
REL-101 Survey of World Religions
REL-120 Judaism, Christianity, and Islam (D)
REL-125 Introduction to Islam (D)
REL-130 Introduction to Religions of the East (D)
REL-140 Religions in the United States
HISTORY
HIS-121 Ancient Mediterranean World
HIS-122 Europe in the Age of Monarchy
HIS-123 Europe in the Age of Revolution
HIS-124 Europe in the Age of Nationalism
HIS-135 Modern World Military History
HIS-151 U.S. History to 1877
HIS-152 U.S. History since 1877
HIS-221 Holocaust and Genocide in Memory and Literature (D)
HIS-254 American Indian History (D)
HIS-291 History of Science
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Applied Science and Technology Program Cost Estimate
School Year 2014-2015
Dental Hygiene
Entry: Fall
SEMESTER
Credit hours per
semester
College Fees:
Tuition
Health exams/X-ray
HepB Vac
Program Fees:
Textbooks
PREREQS
FALL
SPRING
SUMMER
FALL
SPRING
TOTAL
11
17
17
10.5
13.5
17
86
$1,595.00
$2,465.00
$2,465.00
$1,522.50
$1,957.50
$2,465.00
$12,470.00
$350.00
$550.00
Safety glasses
$550.00
$350.00
$250.00
$400.00
$400.00
$300.00
$50.00
$50.00
$20.00
Instruction Supplies
Name tag/lab
coat/shoes
Student organization
$50.00
$20.00
$50.00
$200.00
$45.00
$45.00
$90.00
$300.00
$300.00
$1,500.00
$1,500.00
$60.00
$2,205.00
$200.00
$200.00
National Board Exam
Regional Board Exam
Clinical Certified
Background
TOTALS:
$2,450.00
$60.00
$3,680.00
$2,765.00
$1,922.50
$2,452.50
$4,615.00
$17,640.00
 Please note that students are responsible for paying for parking fees at the College of Dentistry. The fees as of
July 1st, 2013 were $18 per day.
 Health insurance is required for this program. It is estimated to cost approximately $800 per semester
 Travel and parking expenses for clinic courses taught at the College of Dentistry will vary depending on where
students live
 Tuition is based on Fall 2014 at $145 /credit hour
 Textbook prices are subject to change
 Health exams are estimated costs
 Tuition based on Fall 2014 for non-resident students is $175*/credit hour
 Tuition based on Fall 2014 for international students is $290*/credit hour
Section III B
CLASSROOM/LAB/CLINIC
CLASSROOM/LABORATORY /CLINIC POLICIES
Children are not allowed in the classroom, lab or clinic sites at any time. Cell phones and pagers
must be turned off during class time and are not allowed in the clinic settings. Students may not
operate laboratory equipment or participate in any activity that has a potential for injury without an
instructor present. Materials utilized in the classroom, lab or clinic may not be removed and are to be
returned to their proper location.
ATTENDANCE
Adhere to attendance policy as follows:
 notify instructor by phone prior to each clinic laboratory or lecture session by phone, voice
mail or e-mail.
 contact instructor prior to the missed examination, proficiency, laboratory check off or project
to schedule completion date. If no contact is made a grade of “O” will be assigned for that
specific project, examination, laboratory check off, or proficiency.
 obtain information missed from session from classmate.
 See specific course syllabi in regard to grading procedure.
LABORATORY PROCEDURES
a) Specific laboratory rules will be distributed to students for each lab course. Failure to abide by
these rules will result in disciplinary action.
1st and 2nd offense: Verbal Warning
3rd offense: Written Warning
4th offense: Failure of the course.
b) When performing laboratory procedures the following attire is to be worn:
1.
Laboratory Coat: Clean, pressed, designated coat worn over street clothes. Lab coats
will be purchased at the time of registration for the dental hygiene program.
2.
Nametag: Worn on upper left side of lab coat. Name tags will be purchased in the
Kirkwood bookstore
3.
Jewelry: See clinical attire
4.
Hair: See clinical attire
c) Students must properly clean and return all equipment to its correct storage place, the lab must be
in order before students leave.
DENTAL HYGIENE CLINICAL COURSES
Clinical experiences are an integral part of the Dental Hygiene Program. These experiences are
valuable opportunities to develop proficiency with skills needed to perform the duties and
responsibilities of a dental hygienist.
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Student Responsibilities
Students are responsible for all expenses incurred during clinical experiences. Students are required
to have a physical examination by a medical doctor within one year of the clinical experiences with
results on file with the campus nurse. This must include a yearly updated tuberculin screening.
Students also must be current in the following: CPR, OSHA, HIPAA and TB testing.
For each clinical experience students will be required to meet the specific health and physical exam
requirements as established by the clinical facility to which they are assigned. The student will be
responsible for expense related to any additional requirements. If health related requirements are not
met students will be not be able to continue in the dental hygiene program.
Any student injured while on unpaid clinicals need to be seen at St. Luke’s Work Well Clinic, either as
the initial visit or follow up appointment. The claims are processed with Kirkwood Community College’s
Workman Comp claims. St. Luke’s Hospital is the designated hospital to use and the Work Well Clinic
is the physician to see.
GUIDELINES FOR STUDENT’S CLINICAL ATTIRE
Each dental hygienist or dental hygiene student represents the profession to the patient he/she serves.
Therefore, it is important that each student present an image of respectability, cleanliness, and
orderliness.
A. Keep fingernails short, clean and well manicured. Clear or skin tone nail polish may be worn. Nail
length should be short enough so that nails are not visible above the fingertips when viewed from
palm side.
B. Guard against offensive body orders by bathing frequently and by using deodorant or
antiperspirant.
Students presenting in a classroom or clinical setting with other offensive odors will be asked to
leave that setting. (i.e. smelling of alcohol and or tobacco products)
C. Avoid use of strongly scented perfumes, colognes, deodorants, or hairsprays.
D. Maintain optimal oral hygiene by brushing and flossing teeth daily.
E. Do not chew gum in a clinical or laboratory area.
F. Do not smoke or use tobacco products while in clinical attire. If a student or their clinical attire
smells of tobacco products the student will be dismissed from the clinic floor.
G. Jewelry: The only acceptable jewelry is one pair of post style or small hoop earrings. Students
may have no other visible piercings. Wedding bands without prongs are acceptable in the clinical
setting.
H. Tattoos: Tattoos visible during patient care must be covered by some type of bandage or
dressing.
I.
Nametags: A Kirkwood Community College nametag is to be worn on the upper left side of the
clinic jacket or lab coat at all times. This name tag will be ordered at registration for the dental
hygiene program and paid for by students.
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J. Hair: Hair is to be kept clean. Students are to adhere to the following guidelines:
 The back section of the hair may hang over the collar but not be longer than the lowest part of
the shoulders or be worn in such a manner that allows it to fall forward.
 If the sides of the hair are longer than the earlobe, they must be secured so that no hair will
touch the eye or block visibility of the eyes or mouth when the student is viewed from the side.
 Long hair is to be worn in a secure style, which does not allow it to fall forward.
 Hair accessories are to be of a conservative, size, color and number.
K. Uniforms:
 Clinic Jacket: Fully buttoned - These jackets are provided by the College of Dentistry and are
not to be removed from the clinic area.
 Scrubs: Navy blue in color, drawstring, straight hem pant and short sleeve v-neck top, will be
purchased at time of registration for the dental hygiene program. The scrubs are to be worn at
the College of Dentistry and specified extramural sites. Pants should not drag the ground.
L. Shoes: Professional brands or mostly white athletic shoes. They are to be worn only in clinic, lab
or extramural sites.
 Kept clean and polished
 Paid for by student
M. Safety Glasses: OSHA approved, to be worn at all times in laboratory and clinical settings and paid
for by students.
EXTRAMURAL LEARNING EXPERIENCES
During enrollment in the dental hygiene program, students are required to have educational and or
clinical experiences at locations other the College of Dentistry. These locations include but are not
limited to, IMOM, His Hands Free Clinic, Community Health Free Clinic, Iowa City Free Clinic, manor
Care, The Bridge-Catherine McCauley Center, Oakdale Medical Classification Center (Iowa Dept of
Corrections), Cedar Rapids Water Treatment Facility, Oral B Manufacturing Plant, private dental
offices, Public and private school settings, public and private long term care facilities, and facilities
serving community interests. General information involving these rotations includes the following:
A.
Students are required to arrange for their own transportation to and from all experience
locations and to pay all related costs.
B.
Students are required to follow set dress codes for these experiences, this may include
appropriate clinical or professional attire.
C. Students are to follow all rules and procedures set by the facility hosting the experience.
D. Students who are absent from a scheduled experience need to make arrangement with
the lead course instructor to complete the required experience or an assignment
equivalent to the experience. This could mean that the student will have to attend the
experience on their own scheduled time and independently.
PROFESSIONAL MEETINGS
During enrollment in the dental hygiene program students are expected to participate in professional
meetings and learning opportunities. Some dental hygiene programs or clinics may be cancelled so
that students and or faculty may attend these meetings. If students are also enrolled in general
education courses they must discuss these absences with those course instructors prior to the
absence. These course instructors are not required to approve absences in their courses.
A. These meetings include but are not limited to:
Iowa Dental Hygienist’s Association Annual Session
All Iowa Student Faculty Dental Hygiene Conference
Local Dental Hygiene Component Meetings
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B. Students are responsible for their own costs related to these meetings.
C. Kirkwood Community College is not responsible for injury, illness or legal problems incurred
by a student traveling to, from, or while attending these professional meetings.
COMMUNICATIONS
Open, honest communication between students and faculty is extremely important. If students
encounter difficulty with the content and/or methods used in a particular course, it is the student’s
responsibility to make an appointment with the instructor during regular office hours. If a conflict
arises between the student and instructor and they are unable to resolve an issue, the student
should request a meeting with the program director.
Students are encouraged to carefully read their course syllabi for specific requirements and policies
applicable to specific courses.
CONFIDENTIALITY
Students in clinic experience will maintain strict confidentiality of patient information. This includes
oral, written and computerized information. This is an important attribute of professionalism. A
student violating this policy may be asked to leave the clinic site, jeopardizing continuation in the
program. Students in health care facilities will be asked to sign a confidentiality statement and
comply with required facility training in relation to confidentiality.
In accordance with provisions of public law 93-380 as amended (P.L. 935668), the Family
Educational Rights and Privacy Act 1974, commonly known as the “Buckley Amendment”, all faculty
and staff have the responsibility to maintain confidentiality pertaining to student records.
1. No information will be released about student grades to a third party unless the student has given
written consent. “Third party” includes parents, family members, and potential employers.
2. It is the policy of this program and the Allied Health Department not to release directory
information (phone numbers & addresses) without prior consent.
PROFESSIONALISM
Students are representatives of their programs and future professions, and as such, are expected to
be professional in the classroom and at the clinic sites. The conditions of patients should be
discussed only with the professional personnel directly connected with the care of the patient. A
discussion of personal information of patients in public places is a violation of the code of ethics.
Professional relations must be observed during clinic. Students are not to leave their assigned clinic
area without permission from their instructor. All accidents or errors that occur during clinic must be
reported to the instructor. Students are NOT to sign or witness the signature of patients at any time.
Misconduct or negligence in complying with the rules and regulations of the program will be
considered unethical practice and may be grounds for dismissal from the dental hygiene
program and or a suspension from Kirkwood Community College.
CLINICAL COMPLIANCE
Students within Allied Health programs must complete compliance variables in order to participate in
clinical experiences. The compliance process is comprised of variables in three general areas.
These areas are Background Checks, Health Records and Immunizations and Additional
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Compliance Certifications. All three areas of the Compliance process are now housed through an
online vendor called Certified Background. The website for Certified Background is
www.certifiedbackground.com.
Students set up, pay for, and use a certified background account to house all variables of the
compliance process. On your program website, you will find information on each general area of the
compliance process. Specific information and directions to complete the process are listed on the
Compliance website. It is the responsibility of you as the student to complete the processes by the
due dates listed. Below are steps on how to find these directions:




Go to www.kirkwood.edu/alliedhealth
Find your Program link on the Allied Health Homepage
Find the Current Students link on your Program Homepage
Find the Compliance Guide line on the Current Students homepage
You will want to familiarize yourself with the content on this website and use it as your first resource
when looking for answers to your clinical compliance questions. All information regarding the
Compliance process will be discussed during your Technical Program Orientation. If you have any
questions please make sure you work with your Program Director and Allied Health Department
personnel.
Complete up-to-date information on all requirements for clinic compliance is on your program
website at www.kirkwood.edu/alliedhealth. It is the student’s responsibility to read and follow and
meet all requirements and deadlines listed.
FELONY/CRIMINAL CHECKS
If a student has a felony conviction, it may prevent them from being eligible for licensure or
certification and it may adversely affect employment opportunities. Student with a felony conviction
are advised to contact the respective licensing/certification board immediately.
Many clinical agencies require background/criminal checks of all their employees and therefore will
require such checks on all students before respective clinical sites. All Respiratory Therapy
students will be required to complete a criminal background check prior to starting the program. IF
the student’s background check reveals incidents not acceptable to the clinical agency, it will be
necessary for the student to withdraw from the program.
The student will receive information about the criminal check process during the program conference
(prior to admission into the program), at registration, and program orientation. It will be the student’s
responsibility to complete the process.
Please refer to the clinical compliance section on the
Respiratory Therapy Program website for further details.
BASIC LIFE SUPPORT (CPR)/MEDICAL AND DENTAL EMERGENCIES
POLICY
1.
2.
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All students involved in direct patient care will be required to show documentation of
completion of CPR for Health Care Provider training prior to any patient contact and
maintain a current card for the duration of their program. Each student will need to provide
the required documentation each semester. Students who fail to provide documentation of
current CPR training will not be permitted in clinical areas.
Medical exceptions to this requirement may be considered by the program.
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3.
Students will also be required to complete an online Medical/Dental Emergencies course
assigned by your instructor prior to participating in clinical areas.
INFECTION CONTROL/OSHA/EXPOSURE
All students must attend an annual OSHA training session on Standard Precautions in preventing
the spread of bloodborne pathogens and tuberculosis. The initial training is provided in the
Professionals in Health course. Students who do not complete this initial training must see their
program coordinator to schedule the training. Failure to maintain current OSHA training will result in
being dismissed from any course with this requirement.
Students may be participating in activities within courses that have potential for exposure to
infectious diseases including, but not limited to, Hepatitis B and HIV. All measures must be
exercised to minimize risk. Students who fail to comply, jeopardizing the safety of others or
themselves, may be asked to withdraw from the course.
In the event of a significant exposure; punctured by contaminated needles or instruments or
exposed to blood or body fluids (e.g., an occupational incident involving eye, mouth, other mucous
membrane, non-intact skin, or parenteral contact with blood or other potentially infectious material,
including saliva), the student must report the incident immediately to the instructor or clinical
supervisor and file an incident report with the college. Follow-up evaluation will be required
consistent with Federal regulations. A portion of the medical expenses may be covered by Kirkwood.
Students must be practicing standard precautions to collect insurance payment for the fees involved.
ILLNESS/ACCIDENTS
Kirkwood Security, 319-389-1774, should be contacted immediately after an accident has occurred
or been reported so they can respond and create an accident report.
LATEX ALLERGIES: Students reporting a latex or powder allergy must see the Campus Health
Nurse. Campus Health is located in Iowa Hall. It is the student’s responsibility to follow appropriate
protocol for documentation and accommodations.
If a student in a High Risk on-campus program is injured:
1.
2.
3.
An Illness and injury report must be filled out and turned into campus health within 24 hrs.
He/she must be seen by his/her primary care physician or walk-in clinic of his/her
choice.
Bills for the student’s visit should be sent to Risk Management Specialist, 2nd Floor
Kirkwood Hall. We do not tell the student that the bill will be taken care of by
Kirkwood. We only can say that a claim will be filed. The High Risk policy has a $10
deductible which is the responsibility of the student.
If a student is injured off campus in a non-paid clinical /internship:
1.
2.
3.
DH 14-15
In the event of a significant exposure or injury during clinic experience, the student must
report the incident immediately to their clinic/practicum instructor and the clinical agency.
An Illness injury report must be filled out and turned into campus health within 24 hours.
This form is available at www.kirkwood.edu/campushealth.
He/she must been seen by his/her primary care physician or walk-in clinic of his/her
choice.
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4.
Kirkwood Community College will not pay medical bills unless they are found legally
liable to do so.
If a student or Visitor is injured on campus and is NOT in a High Risk on Campus Program:
1.
2.
3.
An Illness/Injury report must be filled out and turned in within 24 hours.
If further medical attention is needed, he/she must be seen by his/her primary care
physician or walk –in clinic of his/her choice.
Kirkwood Community College will not pay medical bills unless they are found legally
liable to do so.
BBP POST-EXPOSURE EVALUATION & FOLLOW-UP
Bloodborne pathogen exposure is defined as contact (skin, eye, mucous membrane or parenteral)
with:










Blood
Body tissues or organs
Semen
Vaginal secretions
Amniotic fluid
Cerebral spinal fluid
Pericardial fluid
Peritoneal fluid
Pleural fluid
Synovial fluid
or other body fluids containing visible blood through injuries from contaminated sharps, breaks in the
skin, skin conditions or mucous membranes.
OSHA requires documentation of the route of exposure, circumstances in which it occurred,
identification and documentation of the source individual (if feasible), testing of the source
individual’s blood for HBV and HIV infectivity if feasible and unknown upon exposure, notification of
results of the source HBV and HIV status to the exposed employee (within applicable state laws /
regulations), collection and testing of the exposed employees blood for HIV and HBV,
documentation of follow-up treatment including test results, prophylactic medications, counseling
and evaluation of reported illnesses.
At KCC, Campus Health is responsible for retaining all of the above documentation as part of the
employee’s medical file. Communication with the exposed employee about testing, vaccination and
medical conditions resulting from exposure should be discussed and instructions provided in writing
within 15 days of exposure.
Procedures Following an Exposure:
Low risk BBP exposure: When the potential for transmission of infectious agents is unlikely or nonexistent. This includes contact with urine, saliva, tears, sweat, sputum and stool which contain no
obvious blood, puncture or laceration from sharps not contaminated with blood or body fluid,
exposure of blood to intact skin, or puncture from a hollow point needle used to administer fluids or
medications into an IV line if no blood is visible in the IV tubing.
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Treatment: For these exposures, wash the affected area immediately. Your intact skin is a
protective barrier and follow up care is not necessary. Complete the Kirkwood Community College
Illness and Injury Report form and notify Campus Health of your low risk exposure.
High risk BBP exposure: When the incident poses a significant potential for the transmission of
infectious agents. This includes a break in the skin from any kind of a sharp (needle, lancet, glass,
surgical instrument) that is contaminated or likely contaminated with blood or body fluid / tissue,
contact with blood or body fluid into an open skin lesion, splashes of blood or bloody material into or
very near the eyes, nose, or mouth, CPR with direct mouth to blood contact, and any other situation
where there is a high probability of contamination.
Treatment:





Wash the affected area immediately and thoroughly with soap and water.
Report the incident to a clinical instructor or supervisor after cleaning the area.
For students, the clinical instructor will notify the clinical area supervisor of the incident.
The clinical instructor or supervisor will start the following paperwork and send this with the
student / staff to the emergency room:
 A copy of the Kirkwood Community College Illness and Injury Report form.
 Body Fluid Exposure - Risk Management Form
 Name, address and phone of the source person (person who's blood or body fluid you
came in contact with, as they will be tested as well)
Student and / or source testing should be billed to the student with copies sent to:
Lara Buckles, Risk Management Specialist
Kirkwood Community College
Kirkwood Hall, 2nd Floor
6301 Kirkwood Blvd SW
Cedar Rapids, IA 52404



The exposed student must submit the above information to Campus Health at 132 Iowa Hall
via fax 319-398-7114 or e-mail fhealth@kirkwood.edu within 24 hours of the exposure. Failure
to submit these forms to Campus Health may cause the student to be billed individually for
the costs of the emergency room visit and lab fees. If additional follow-up care and lab
testing is necessary, the student should coordinate follow-up visits with a health care
provider of their choice. For students in qualified high risk programs, Kirkwood carries a
limited medical coverage policy with limits of $1,000 per student with a $10 deductible that is
the student’s responsibility. The paperwork must be submitted and accepted before Kirkwood
becomes responsible for any payment of bills. We do not guarantee the bills will be taken
care of.
OSHA requires all evaluations, follow-up, prophylactic treatment and testing be made
available at no cost to the employee.
Exposure Protocol while at UI Dental College:
Despite best efforts to minimize risk of exposure, accidents happen and providers should be
aware of the steps they should take following an exposure incident. Following an exposure
we recommend that the provider:
1.
DH 14-15
Wash your hands. This reduces risk of infection and gives the provider a chance to
plan what to do next.
Page 50
2.
3.
Protect the patient. The instrument that injured the provider should not be used again
on the patient. Contaminated instruments should be isolated from any equipment that
will be used on the patient to avoid exposing the patient to the provider’s blood.
Tell the patient what happened. The provider can use language like, “I was accidently
exposed to potentially infectious fluids, and the College’s protocol is that I report to the
laboratory for evaluation.” We have found that the patient pool at the College of
Dentistry is very understanding of the requirements and delays associated with
treatment here, and will quite willingly comply with short delay in the procedure. Don’t
be embarrassed to tell them what happened.
Report to the laboratory, S361. There the provider will discuss the injury with the laboratory
staff or Dr. Finkelstein, and decide what course of treatment is desired.
All providers experiencing an exposure will fill out an Exposure Incident Form, Which is
confidential and will be kept on file in the laboratory.
Providers may, based on the severity of the injury and health history of the patient, request
testing for Bloodborne pathogens. If this testing is requested, and the patient consents to
testing, a finger-prick sample from the patient will be tested for Hepatitis C and HIV here at
the College, and the provider will report to Student/Employee Health for testing and
counseling. If patient testing is requested, the provider must also be tested.
Following collection of the patient sample, the patient and provider may return to the chair to
complete the procedure. Reporting to the laboratory, choosing the treatment, and collecting
the sample (if requested) should take less than 15 minutes.
When the procedure has been completed, and the patient has been discharged, the provider
will report to Student/Employee Health for testing and counseling. If the provider will be
unable to report prior to 4PM he/she must call the clinic to schedule an appointment.
HEALTH INSURANCE
Some clinics require students to provide proof of medical insurance coverage prior to enrollment in
specific courses. Forms verifying coverage may be obtained from the program director or in the
Allied Health Department Office. The information provided will be sent to clinical agencies requiring
proof of health insurance.
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Section III C
REGISTRATION/GRADES
REGISTRATION
The sequence of courses in the program has been carefully planned to ensure the most effective
and efficient presentation of curriculum. Program advisors will assist students in following the
curriculum and registering for the proper course sections. Students who plan to transfer to a 4-year
college should meet with their advisor regarding transfer courses where appropriate. Students will
be notified of pre-registration times.
Prior to the completion of the registration process:
1. The student must have no registration holds. Holds may be due to parking fines, library fines,
incomplete health physical or immunizations or outstanding financial obligations to the college.
2. Students on academic probation or with an academic warning must meet with a counselor in
Student Development (115 Iowa Hall) before their registration can be processed.
CHANGE OF REGISTRATION
If it becomes necessary to drop or add a course after registration, the student must see their advisor,
complete a change of registration form and personally take it to the Enrollment Services office (216
Kirkwood Hall). If circumstances prevent a student from continued attendance in a course, a change
of registration form must be completed. If a student does not continue to attend a course, but fails to
withdraw from the course, the instructor will have no choice but to assign a failing grade. Each
semester has a last day to drop classes indicated on the academic calendar. The last day to drop is
75% through a course. See the academic calendar or course syllabus for specific information. Refer
to the student handbook for information regarding tuition reimbursement.
DENTAL HYGIENE ACADEMIC REQUIREMENTS
Students are expected to achieve and maintain a cumulative 2.0 grade point average. Students are
expected to achieve a "C" or better in all Dental Hygiene courses. This includes any course that has a
course number beginning with DEN or DHY. Students achieving less than a C in any Dental Hygiene
course must retake that course before continuing on in the program.
Courses in the curriculum are in a sequential manner with introductory material given as a foundation
for advanced coursework. For this reason, students who do not pass a prerequisite course must
successfully complete that course before continuing in the curriculum.
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GRADES
Kirkwood uses a 4.0 grading system. Kirkwood grades and their meanings are given below:
A
AB+
B
BC+
C
CD+
D
DF
FW
4.0
3.67
3.33
3.00
2.67
2.33
2.00
1.67
1.33
1.00
0.67
0
0
P
Q
I
E
T
N
W
X
O
Passing-credit
No credit
Incomplete
Excused Without Credit
Credit by Examination
Audit
Withdrew from Course
Course repeated
Original grade removed
Failure to Withdraw
The grades A, B, C, D, F, and FW are included in the computation of grade point average [see
college handbook for computing grade point average]
Grading scales for individual courses are found in each course syllabus.
PHI THETA KAPPA HONOR SOCIETY
What is Phi Theta Kappa?
Phi Theta Kappa is an international honor society for students in two-year colleges. Kirkwood
Community College has an active chapter, named Alpha Eta Rho, headquartered in the Arts and
Humanities Department, 337 Cedar Hall.
What are the benefits?
 Members are eligible for more than $30 million in scholarships at four-year institutions
nationwide when they transfer from Kirkwood. A complete list of scholarships can be found on
the PTK web site: www.ptk.org.
 Members wear a gold honors stole and tassel at Commencement.
 Members receive a gold PTK key lapel pin, membership certificate, and ID card.
 Members are automatically recommended for the National Dean’s List.
 Members may compete for other honors.
 Phi Theta Kappa membership is noted on the Kirkwood transcript and the Phi Theta Kappa seal
appears on members’ Kirkwood diploma.
 Best of all, members may join with other Alpha Eta Rho members in the activities of a thriving
local chapter, and may qualify to attend regional or national meetings.
What are the eligibility requirements?
A 3.5 grade point average and at least 12 credits earned toward an AA, AS, AS/CO, or AAS degree
are required to become a member. A 3.4 GPA must be maintained to sustain membership.
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How much does membership cost?
As of fall semester 2000, membership in the local, regional, and national association will total
$50.00. A typical transfer scholarship to a Phi Theta Kappa member from a four-year college or
university will be from $500 - $5000—a good return on a $50 investment!
Is this only for arts and sciences students?
Definitely not. Members include students from all programs, all Kirkwood locations, daytime and
evening, full-time and part-time students. A non-active (registered) membership, also $50, is
available for students who cannot participate in chapter meetings or activities.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
CONTACT THE ARTS & HUMANITIES DEPARTMENT, 398-4913
SATISFACTORY PROGRESS
College regulations require a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.0 to graduate with an
AAS. Academic probation may be given for either a grade point average of less than 2.0 in any
given term, or for failure to maintain satisfactory progress. In light of requirements for completion,
failure to maintain satisfactory progress will be considered as a GPA below 2.00 in any given
semester, and/or a grade of "F" in any prerequisite course work. A student on academic probation
must maintain a GPA of 2.00 or greater the next semester. Continuation in the program is contingent
upon maintaining satisfactory progress during "probationary status".
Students must be within four months of issuance of a dental hygiene program degree to be eligible
to take the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination according to regulations of the Joint
Commission on National Dental Examinations. Courses taken in the Dental Hygiene Program up to
the time of the National Board Examination must be passed with a “C “ grade or above. This
includes all courses with a DEN or DHY course number.
Students who wish to become candidates for the regional board examination of their choice must be
within four months of issuance of a dental hygiene program degree to be eligible to take the
examination. The student’s clinical performance must be at a level which allows the program
director to verify that the student is prepared to take the exam.
GRADING SCALE
The grading scale used for all Dental Hygiene Courses is:
A
AB+
B
BC+
C
CD+
D
DF
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= 100-96%
= 95-93%
= 92-89%
= 88-86%
= 85-83%
= 82-79%
= 78-77%******
= 76-75%
= 74-73%
= 72-71%
= 70-69%
= Below 69%
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Students who have questions regarding exams or final course grades must contact the instructor
within one month after the term ends. Exams are destroyed after this time.
STUDENT FAILURES AND WITHDRAWAL FROM THE PROGRAM
The program reserves the right to request the withdrawal of any student whose health, work, or
conduct is determined to be detrimental to the health and safety of themselves, other students or
patients.
Students who plan or are advised to withdraw from a course or who fail courses must confer with the
lead course instructor involved and the program director.
Specific procedures regarding these activities follow:
A. Students should withdraw from dental hygiene program courses only when the probability of
attaining a passing grade of “C“ is doubtful. The final day for withdrawal is published in the
college class schedule each semester.
B. Students should discuss the possibility of withdrawal with the lead course instructor and then
with the program director before making a final decision. Those individuals receiving
financial assistance should consult with the Financial Aid Office as to the effect on that aid
before withdrawal. Failure to consult with the Financial Aid Office could be very costly to the
student.
C. Students who fail any Dental Hygiene (DEN or DHY course number) course will be
automatically dismissed from the program. Grades lower than a “C“ constitute failure in both
didactic and clinical or laboratory courses. Students must pass both clinical and didactic
courses with a “C“ or better. Students may repeat an individual course a maximum of three
(3) times.
D. Students are required to have an exit conference with the program director to explore the
reason(s) for withdrawal or failure and potential for readmission.
E. Students who withdraw or fail anytime during the freshman year can expect to repeat the
first year courses upon readmission to the program.
F. Students who withdraw or fail anytime during their second year may be considered for
readmission with sophomore status. Readmission requirements will then be established on
an individual and space available basis
G. A student may fail a course or courses and be readmitted to the program a maximum of
three (3) times. After the third unsuccessful attempt at completion, the student will be
required to reapply and complete the admission criteria before being accepted as a new
student in the program.
READMISSION TO THE PROGRAM
If readmission is sought after exiting the program, the student will be required to fulfill the current
curriculum and program requirements for graduation. Readmission is contingent upon available
space in the class and completion of admission requirements.
See Kirkwood Student Handbook for other withdrawal and readmission policies, such as
readmission following academic suspension.
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Students who qualify may apply for readmission to the program for the following academic year by
submitting one letter of request to the program director. The letter should be submitted as soon as
possible after withdrawal or failure from the program. This procedure will allow communication on
the curriculum recommendations and requirements to occur to aid students in re-qualifying for
admission.
The letter of request to the program director will be examined by a program faculty committee. The
program faculty committee will determine specific requirements which must be fulfilled as
consideration for readmission to the program.
Readmitted students may be expected to repeat didactic and or clinical courses and register for
them as Studies in Health Science or Clinical Enrichment for the Dental Hygienist if the course
instructors believe the student needs to increase course knowledge to succeed in subsequent
courses, safely provide dental hygiene treatment to patients and become adequately prepared for
board examinations.
Readmitted students will be required to sign a special contract prepared by the program director.
The contract will specifically state the activities in which the student must participate in order to
successfully graduate from the program.
Readmission can be denied for any of the following reasons:
A. Breach of the Code of Conduct by becoming involved in any form of cheating, stealing, or
making threats to harm the person or property of any fellow student, faculty members of
Kirkwood Community College.
B. Demonstrated inability of the student to act in a professional and ethical manner (See
Dental Hygiene Student Responsibilities)
C. Demonstrated inability of the student to perform delicate hand skills needed for the safe
treatment of dental hygiene patients.
PART- TIME STATUS
Students who are unable to complete the program in the normal sequence of courses must:
 Meet with their advisor and plan the sequence of courses.
 Reapply for the next program start if they have not completed the first semester courses.
These students do not have priority over new applicants
 If numerous students request to re-enter the program, the date of the application will be
used to select students accepted to register.
 Registration in classes on a part-time basis is not guaranteed. Registration is on a space
available basis. Priority will be given to students enrolled full-time with the intention of
completing the program requirements within the curriculum plan.
DENTAL HYGIENE SCHOLARSHIPS
*For information on general scholarships, check with Kirkwood's Financial Aid Office, 205 Kirkwood
Hall.
AMERICAN DENTAL ASSOCIATION ENDOWMENT FUND
Award scholarships up to $1000 to students demonstrating financial need and
academic achievement (2.8 GPA); for student entering full time in program.
Applications open August 15.
Agency: ADA Endowment, 211 East Chicago Ave., Chicago, IL 60611
DH 14-15
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Contact: Shaunda Clark, DH Program Director
ALLIED HEALTH/NURSING ST. LUKE'S SCHOLARSHIP.
For students enrolled in program technical courses who have an average program
GPA of 2.5 or above. Students will receive a $500 award applied to the summer term.
Applications open in January with a March 15th deadline.
Application form available at the Financial Aid Office, 205 Kirkwood Hall.
ST. LUKE'S HEALTH CARE FOUNDATION SCHOLARSHIP.
For non-traditional students currently enrolled in the program who have an average
GPA of 2.5 or above. Application must provide evidence of a permanent address in an
area within approximately a 50 mile radius of St. Luke's Hospital in Cedar Rapids,
Iowa. Awards provide tuition assistance for the following Fall and Spring semesters.
Applications open in early spring with a mid-March deadline.
Application form available at the Allied Health office, 221 Linn Hall.
EXTRA-CURRICULAR COLLEGE ACTIVITIES
Students are encouraged to inform instructors well in advance of absences for extra-curricular
college activities.
GRIEVANCE & ACADEMIC APPEAL POLICY
For concerns or appeals, students should first meet with the course instructor and then, if necessary,
the program director, then the department dean. These concerns should be addressed as soon as
possible. Grade appeals must be presented within 60 days from the date of which the grade was
assigned. Refer to the Kirkwood Student Handbook for additional information.
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Section IV
PROGRAM COMPLETION
ACADEMIC AND GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS
Students are expected to achieve and maintain a 2.0 grade point average.
All students graduating from this program must successfully complete all required program courses
and achieve a 2.0 cumulative grade - point average.
No “D” developmental level courses are accepted as course substitutions in this program. These
courses have a "D" in the course catalog number. For example: PT080D, Pre-algebra.
All students must complete an “Application to Graduate” by the following application deadlines:
Graduation
Deadline
Spring
February 1
Summer
February 1
Fall
September 1
Students in this program must achieve a “C” in both the didactic and clinical portion of the following
courses to continue in the program:
DHY173
Dental Hygiene I
DHY296
Dental Hygiene IV
DHY186
Dental Hygiene II
DHY306
Dental Hygiene V
DHY285
Dental Hygiene III
DEN120
Dental Anatomy
DEN100
Fund. of Dentistry
DEN130
Head & Neck Anat.
DEN200
Preventive Dentistry
DHY220
Dent Mat for the DH
DEN300
Dental Radiography
DEN150
Dental Emergencies
DEN220
Dental Nutrition
DHY270
Loc Anes. for the DH
DHY140
Oral Pathology
DHY250
Comm. Dent. Health
DHY211
Periodontology
DHY134
Thera. & Pain Cont.
Students requiring didactic and or clinical remediation will need to meet with the instructor of the
course to prepare a written remediation plan. The student will keep one copy of the plan and a
second copy will be placed in the student's file.
Students achieving less than a C in any of these courses must retake that course before continuing
in the program. Students should refer to the syllabus for the specific course requirements.
Courses in the curriculum are sequential. For this reason, students who do not pass a prerequisite
course must successfully complete that course before continuing in the curriculum. Refer to the
course descriptions in the college catalog for prerequisites.
Students may not graduate:
with an incomplete, “F” or no pass grade in any program course.
if money is owed for fines, lost or damaged equipment.
if they have any registration holds such as outstanding fines.
Students are awarded an Associate of Applied Science degree.
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STUDENT/GRADUATE INPUT
Students will be asked for input and suggestions in most courses. Given the diverse learning styles
and backgrounds of a class, it is always challenging for faculty to find methods to satisfy the learning
needs of each student. Students are encouraged to be open and honest in providing feedback to
faculty. Students are entitled to anonymity when providing feedback. Any intimidation or retribution
resulting from feedback should be reported to the Dean of the Allied Health Department.
Near the end of the program, students will be asked to complete a survey assessing program
strengths and areas for improvement. A follow up survey will be sent to all graduates to obtain
feedback related to the program curriculum. Graduate feedback is viewed as an extremely valuable
resource for curriculum review and revision. Additional informal suggestions are encouraged.
Graduates are asked to inform the program director of all professional accomplishments including
awards, promotions and publications.
LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS
Kirkwood Community College Dental Hygiene program is accredited by the Commission on Dental
Accreditation. Graduates of this program are eligible to take the licensure exam given by the State
Board of Dental Examiners and the regional clinical board examination of their choice. The
examination needed to practice in Iowa and surrounding states varies. Students must select the
clinical board that is appropriate for the state in which they choose to practice in. Licensure is required
in Iowa, and all other states. Students will receive further information about the process of applying for
licensure during the fall term of the 2nd year. If a licensed dental hygienist moves to another state,
he/she must make certain of clinical board requirements for the specific state.
ARTICULATIONS OPPORTUNITIES
BACHELOR OF ARTS IN SPECIAL STUDIES – St. Ambrose University, Davenport, Iowa for
registered nurses and allied health graduates.
APPLIED BUSINESS – Bachelor’s degree
Mount Mercy College, Cedar Rapids, IA, will accept 63 credit hours toward a bachelor of applied
science degree
DEGREE COMPLETION PROGRAMS
University of Missouri Kansas City, School of Dentistry Bachelor’s Degree and Master’s Degree
State University of New York, Bachelor’s Degree
University of Minnesota, Master’s Degree
Minnesota State University Mankato Bachelor’s Degree
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PINNING CEREMONIES
Graduating classes have the option of holding a pinning ceremony after completion of all course
work. It is the responsibility of the graduating class to plan and finance this event. It is suggested
that planning should start soon after the students begin their second to last semester to assure
facilities arrangements. All pinning ceremonies must be on campus and pins ordered from the
college bookstore or program. Planning for the pinning ceremony must be done in conjunction with
the program director. For more information see the program director.
AMERICAN DENTAL HYGIENIST’S ASSOCIATION
Student Membership
Students are expected to join and participate in the American Dental Hygienist’s Association, as a
student member. ADHA is the professional organization of dental hygiene students. Membership
enables students to participate in monthly and annual social and service activities which are
financially supported and sponsored by the organization. These activities bring the dental hygiene
student body together outside of the classroom, laboratory and clinical environments.
Officers are elected in the fall of each year during a general election involving all dental hygiene
students. These officers are responsible for planning the organization’s activities for the year.
Regular and special meetings are scheduled and announced during the year. All members of the
organization are urged to attend. Faculty advisors to the organization may attend the meetings.
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Section V
GENERAL INFORMATION
For Further Information, contact us at:
Kirkwood Community College
6301 Kirkwood Blvd. SW
Cedar Rapids, IA 52406
www.kirkwood.edu/alliedhealth
Allied Health Department
2164 Linn Hall
319-398-5566
FAX: 319-398-1293
1-800-363-2220
Program Faculty:
Shaunda Clark, Program Director, Professor
319-398-5514
Email: shaunda.clark@kirkwood.edu
Lisa Hebl, Assistant Professor
319-398-7601
Email: lisa.hebl@kirkwood.edu
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