Final answer:
Under general supervision, an RDH may be able to test pulp vitality without a dentist physically present, while direct supervision would require a dentist's presence in the facility.
Step-by-step explanation:
A Registered Dental Hygienist (RDH) can perform various tasks under general or direct supervision, depending on the regulations of the particular state or country. Under general supervision, an RDH may not require the physical presence of a dentist to perform certain procedures. However, with direct supervision, the dentist must be present in the facility to direct and approve the work done by the hygienist.Testing pulp vitality specifically falls under duties that can usually be done under general supervision.
This involves assessing the health of the dental pulp, which is the innermost part of the tooth containing nerves and blood vessels, to determine if a tooth is alive or dead. In scenarios where a hygienist is working under the direct supervision of a registered nurse, the focus is typically on providing specific health treatments, such as dialysis, which includes tasks like reviewing patient history, assessing patient needs, and ensuring procedures are sterile and accurate.