What must practitioners complete within six months of starting work in Iowa?

Practitioners in Iowa are required to complete a DHS course on child abuse within six months of beginning their work. This requirement is put in place to ensure that dental hygiene professionals are aware of the signs of child abuse and are properly trained to respond if they encounter such situations in their practice. The training focuses on recognizing abuse and understanding the legal obligations to report it, which is crucial for protecting the welfare of children.

This requirement reflects the commitment of both the state and the dental hygiene profession to prioritize patient safety and child protection. Therefore, completing this course within the stipulated timeframe is an essential step for practitioners to ensure they are adequately prepared to handle sensitive situations involving minors.