Page 25 - Compendium Chapters for Course 1 (IC, DPA, OSHA)

Two categories of gloves routinely used in the dental clinic include (1) thin latex, synthetic, nitrile or vinyl exam gloves used during patient treatment and (2) general- purpose heavy-duty or utility gloves used for cleaning operations.
General-purpose utility gloves are thicker gloves that are only appropriate for use during cleanup and disinfection procedures. Puncture-and disinfectant-resistant utility gloves are required for use when disinfecting operatories and handling instruments during cleaning and sterilization procedures. Unlike medical exam gloves used during patient care, utility gloves can be washed and reused and in many cases can be sterilized in a steam autoclave. However, be sure to replace them if they become cracked, worn, or show other evidence of deterioration. In the event medical exam gloves should rip or tear during a procedure, the dental healthcare provider must remove the glove, wash and dry hands, and place on new gloves.
• PPE INCLUDES MASKS
Spatter containing blood and saliva is generated during dental procedures from equipment such as the handpiece, air-water syringe, or ultrasonic scaler. A mask must be worn to protect the mucous membranes of the nose and mouth from exposure to the airborne blood and saliva. Several guidelines for the use of masks include the following:
1. Choose a style that can be adjusted to fit your face comfortably and tightly.
2. Men: Keep your beard and mustache groomed so that the mask fits well and can be
worn effectively.
3. Always change the mask between patients and if it gets wet during a procedure.
4. Remove the mask when treatment is over. Do not leave it dangling around your
neck; either wear it properly or take it off.
5. Never leave the operatory with a mask in place or around your neck.
6. When removing a mask, handle it only by the elastic or cloth tie string; never touch
the mask.
• PPE INCLUDES PROTECTIVE EYEWEAR
Protective eyewear must be worn to protect the mucous membranes of the eyes from projectiles and spatter of blood and saliva. The risk of exposing the tissues of the eyes to blood and body fluids is well documented. Viruses such as hepatitis B and herpes simplex have been transmitted to dental staff whose eyes were spattered with saliva or blood.
Choice of eyewear depends on the nature of the procedures that are being performed.
Intro Page - 25
Introductory Chapter: Dental Practice Act, Infection Control and Cal-OSHA
The California RDAEF: A Compendium for Licensure Success © The Foundation for Allied Dental Education, Inc. 2016 Copyright protected. All rights reserved