What type of supervision is required when monitoring the administration of nitrous-oxide oxygen?

Monitoring the administration of nitrous-oxide oxygen requires indirect supervision. In the context of dental hygiene practice, indirect supervision means that a licensed dentist must be present in the office and available to provide guidance and assistance, but does not need to be physically in the same room while the dental hygienist performs the procedure. This type of supervision is critical for procedures involving sedation, as the dentist can offer immediate support or intervention if complications arise during the administration of nitrous oxide.

This requirement ensures that while the dental hygienist is qualified to monitor the patient and manage the nitrous oxide delivery, the dentist is still overseeing the overall patient care, ensuring safety and adherence to protocols. Indirect supervision strikes a balance between allowing dental hygienists to utilize their training and skills while maintaining a necessary level of oversight from a licensed dentist.