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Key Points
- The field of dental infection
control is always evolving. Up-to-date information can be obtained
from several sources.
- Exposure
to mercury and mercury vapor is a recognized potential health hazard.
- Although
nitrous oxide is probably the safest sedative agent, proper precautions
must be taken to avoid potential health effects from environmental
exposure in the dental office.
- Dental
X-rays should be taken only after a clinical examination of the
patient has determined that X-rays are needed, and a thyroid collar
and apron should be used when X-rays are taken of children or of
women of childbearing age. State regulations for certification
of dental assistant radiographers and for registration of X-ray equipment
must be met.
- Accident
reports are used to report work-related injuries to staff.
- While medical emergencies
in clinics are rare, staff must be prepared to handle them if they
arise.
- The
Joint Commission requires that all its accredited facilities maintain
a life-safety management plan that describes how the facility will
provide a fire-safe environment.
- Clinics
need a plan for how to respond to disasters of both natural and
human origin, including but not limited to tornadoes, hurricanes,
ice storms and snowstorms, earthquakes, bomb threats, and bio-terrorism.
- Depending
on the size and complexity of the clinic, the clinic may need to
develop a security-management plan that addresses how to protect
staff, patients, and visitors from harm from intruders or other patients.
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