Cross infection is the transmission of infectious agents between patients, the dental surgeon, instruments, or even the hospital environment. In dentistry, where blood, saliva, and aerosols are commonly encountered, infection control is not an option, but is necessary in all cases. Primary sources of infection comprise contaminated instruments, aerosols generated during procedures, and inadequate hand hygiene. The possible risks involved with pathogens include Hepatitis B, HIV, Mycobacterium tuberculosis, etc.
Here’s what you must follow while in the clinic:
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Gloves, masks, and face shields shall be worn along with gowns.
Sterilization: Use autoclaving for instruments; surfaces shall be disinfected chemically. Never recycle disposables.
Hand Hygiene: Wash hands before and after every procedure—even when wearing gloves.
Aerosol Control: Employing methods such as high-volume suction, rubber dams, and pre-procedural mouth rinses.
Biomedical Waste Disposal: Segregate according to color coding, ensuring sharps disposal into puncture-proof containers.
Disinfecting Dental Chair & Units: Disinfect all contact points post-every patient using surface disinfectants approved for such use.
As a student, learn why every protocol is the way it is.