Which aspect of dental practice was updated in 2019 concerning scope of practice?

The update concerning scope of practice in dental hygiene that occurred in 2019 primarily focused on phlebotomy—specifically, the ability of dental hygienists to perform blood draws as part of their clinical duties. This expansion allows dental hygienists to contribute to patient care by drawing blood for oral-systemic health assessments and coordinating care with other medical professionals. By being trained and authorized to perform this procedure, dental hygienists can address a broader range of patient needs and integrate more effectively into multidisciplinary health teams.

While the other options like wine prescriptions, medication refills, and cosmetic procedures may be relevant in various contexts, they do not pertain to the specific updates in dental hygiene practice regulations under Iowa law. Phlebotomy stands out as a significant addition to the operational capacity of dental hygienists, aligning their skills more closely with contemporary healthcare practices and patient management strategies.