Cracking the Case: Mastering NBDHE Case Study Strategies

Presented by: Dana Paladino

Course Description:

The case study portion of the NBDHE makes up 43% of the exam and challenges candidates to apply their knowledge to realistic patient scenarios. With 150 case-based questions spread across the second testing session, success requires more than memorization, it requires strategy. This interactive webinar will break down the NBDHE case study format and give participants proven strategies to approach questions with confidence. You’ll learn how to effectively analyze patient profiles, charts, radiographs, and intraoral photos, while avoiding common pitfalls like assuming missing information or overlooking the chief complaint. Test-taking techniques such as time management, eliminating distractors, and flagging questions will also be covered. The session concludes with a mini case study walkthrough, an engaging Kahoot practice game, and a giveaway from our sponsors at StudentRDH! See details below.

Course objectives:

At the conclusion of this course, the participant will be able to:

• Describe the structure and percentage of the NBDHE case study section.
• Apply case study–specific strategies to efficiently analyze patient profiles, charts, radiographs, and photos.
• Prioritize patient-centered thinking by identifying the chief complaint and appropriate first steps.
• Differentiate between relevant and irrelevant information within case scenarios.
• Implement test-taking strategies, including time management, process of elimination, and handling flagged questions to improve exam performance.
• Practice case study analysis through a guided mini case and interactive quiz activity.

About the presenter:

Dana is the owner of Dental Hygiene Basics, an educational consulting company dedicated to helping students get into and succeed in dental hygiene school. Through her business, Dana aims to award $100,000 in dental hygiene scholarships by 2035. She also serves as an NBDHE tutor, ADEX examiner, StudentRDH faculty member, and public health hygienist. Both personally and professionally, she is committed to building a strong, supportive community where current and future dental hygienists uplift one another and advance the profession together.

About this Student Webinar Program:

This is an interactive student webinar designed specifically for current students and recent grads. While your camera will be off, we encourage lively discussion in the chat box—ask questions, share takeaways, and connect with other future professionals!

This format is designed to be flexible and student-friendly, so feel free to tune in between classes, during your commute, or wherever you may be. Whether you're soaking up info on the go or participating from your couch, we're glad you're here!

StudentRDH VIP Package Giveaway Details:

One participant will be chosen to win an exclusive VIP packed for StudentRDH board prep which includes:

• NBDHE study book: 350 pages, 17 chapters
• Top 150 Drugs Booklet:with 500 questions + wakeup memory.
• On Demand Review: 150+ video explanations, online study guide, 5000+ practice Qs
• Live Summit: Worksheet, join via zoom+QA, recordings
• Live Case Studies: 4 NBDHE Case studies, Join via Zoom and Kahoot, worksheets, self study
• VIP Exclusive: Live updated webinars, pre and post assessments, study technique workshops

Giveaway Sponsored by:

StudentRDH