HYGIENE STUDY CLUB

Synopsis

Ensuring infection control compliance can be challenging for many dental practices. From staying current with OSHA regulations and CDC guidelines to providing proper team training; maintaining cleanliness and sterilization standards, including dental unit waterline maintenance; managing costs; and implementing effective communication and documentation processes—preventing exposure to pathogens remains one of the most important and demanding responsibilities dental professionals face. 

However, noncompliance with dental infection control protocols is not an option, as it can have serious consequences—including patient or team member infections, legal and financial repercussions, and damage to the practice’s reputation, potentially resulting in the loss of patients and revenue.​

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Course Objectives

• Define infection prevention principles and recommendations for dental health care settings. 

• Recognize methods to prevent transmission of infectious agents through standard precautions, including cross-contamination prevention, hand hygiene, respiratory hygiene, and cough etiquette.

• Employ standard operating procedures to remain in compliance with regulation, which includes PPE and practitioner safety, sharp safety, safe injection practices, and environmental controls. 

• Formulate a successful dental unit waterline protocol, including dental unit water quality and waterline testing.

• Manage a successful infection control plan that includes the sterilization of patient care items to prevent disease transmission.