Which anesthesia methods can be administered by a Certified Registered Dental Hygienist?

The correct choice indicates that a Certified Registered Dental Hygienist (CRDH) is authorized to administer intraoral and soft tissue infiltration anesthesia. This aligns with the training and scope of practice defined for dental hygienists in Florida. Intraoral anesthesia refers to the localized numbing of a specific area within the oral cavity, such as the gums or periodontal tissues, and is essential in providing comfort for procedures like cleanings or scaling.

This method doesn't require the complexities and additional monitoring that come with other anesthesia types, such as intravenous or general anesthesia. Instead, it allows the hygienist to effectively manage patient discomfort while adhering to the regulations pertaining to their practice.

Other choices involve anesthesia types that either exceed the training scope of a CRDH or have specific legal and practical limitations. For example, intravenous anesthesia and general anesthesia involve a higher level of sedation and require more extensive training and credentials, typically designated for dental anesthetists or oral surgeons. Emergency anesthesia is also not a standard practice within the hygienist's capabilities, as it usually pertains to critical care scenarios requiring immediate intervention and advanced monitoring. This further clarifies why the correct option emphasizes the specific, permitted method of intraoral and soft tissue infiltration anesthesia for dental hygienists within their professional scope.