What must a hygienist do to administer local anesthesia in Louisiana?

• A. A hygienist must send proof of completion of local anesthesia training and pay a fee to apply for a local anesthesia permit
• B. A hygienist must complete a hands-on anesthesia residency
• C. A hygienist must obtain written consent from patient
• D. A hygienist must be licensed as a dentist

Answer: (A)

In Louisiana, a hygienist may administer local anesthesia only after obtaining a local anesthesia permit from the Louisiana State Board of Dentistry. This permit is earned by showing proof of completion of a board-approved local anesthesia training course and paying the permit application fee. Once issued, the permit allows the hygienist to administer local anesthesia under the supervision mandated by law.

Residency training is not required for this authorization, and obtaining patient written consent, while important for patient care, does not authorize administration. Being licensed as a dentist is not a prerequisite for a hygienist to obtain the local anesthesia permit.