Dental assistants are the front line of infection control
You’re probably aware that infection prevention and control duties are often assigned to you, the dental assistant. According to the DALE Foundation’s “Value of dental assistants to the dental practice” research, 99% of dentists and dental assistants said sterilization and disinfection duties are delegated to the dental assistants in the practice. They are on the front lines of keeping patients and providers safe and healthy.
Considering this, it’s crucial for assistants to be armed with the latest information and recommendations regarding dental infection prevention and control and protocol, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.
How to stay up to date on infection control knowledge
The Organization for Safety, Asepsis and Prevention (OSAP) is an excellent resource for dental assistants and all dental team members. OSAP created a coronavirus disease (COVID-19) toolkit with links to the most up-to-date guidance on dental infection prevention and control in the time of COVID-19.
OSAP and the DALE Foundation collaborated to launch the OSAP-DALE Foundation dental infection prevention and control certificate program. The program covers the application of standard precautions outlined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Bloodborne Pathogens Standard developed by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). It is a cornerstone of knowledge for the more than 900 dental professionals who have completed it.
Most recently, OSAP and the DALE Foundation worked together to develop a two-CE credit, online continuing education article, COVID-19 respiratory droplet and aerosol protection. Completing the article will help you understand how to maintain a safe work environment during the pandemic based on CDC guidance and OSHA requirements for respiratory protection.
Dental assistants and dental team members are committed to ensuring patient safety. They are also among the professionals most at risk of infection, given the close contact with patients and each other. More than ever, boosting knowledge in infection prevention and control is important for protecting patients and ensuring staff safety.
