SECTION 1

INFECTION CONTROL IN THE DENTAL SURGERY

It is the responsibility of the dental team to ensure that the appropriate and correct procedures are carried out in relation to infection control to protect the patients, the public and themselves.

Figure 1.1

PROTECTIVE WEAR

FIGURE 1.1a, b, c

Name

(a) Mask (b) Safety glasses (c) Face shields

Function, precautions and directions for use

• To protect the dental team from micro-organisms, debris, splatter and chemicals
• A mask is worn to protect the mucous membranes of the nose and mouth. It filters out small particles
  • Should always be changed between each patient or before if it is visibly soiled
  • Should be worn during patient care, sterilisation, disinfection, cleaning procedures and during laboratory work
• Safety glasses and/or face shields are worn to protect the mucous membranes of the eyes
  • Should be disinfected between patients
  • A face shield can be used instead of safety glasses, but a mask must still be worn
  • Should be large enough to cover the eye area completely and provide protection from the top and side. With some safety glasses additional top and side shields have to be added to be used for this purpose
  • Safety glasses are available to fit over prescription eye wear
  • Must be shatterproof

Varieties

Different types of masks and glasses available

Figure 1.2

Figure 1.3

FIGURE 1.2

Name

Protective gloves

Function and directions for use

• To protect the dental team from direct contact with micro-organisms, debris, splatter and chemicals
• Worn during patient care when coming in contact with contaminated objects and chemicals, and when working intra-orally
• Always change between patients
• Do not wash gloves
• Replace damaged and ripped gloves immediately
• Always wash and dry hands thoroughly prior to donning gloves
• It is important to make sure gloves fit properly

Varieties

• Made from many different materials, i.e. latex, vinyl and nitrile
• Available packaged as sterile surgical gloves
• Rubber utility gloves/heavy duty gloves are used during sterilisation procedures

WORK SURFACES

FIGURE 1.3a, b

Name

Non-permeable barriers

Function and features

• Used to cover surfaces to prevent contamination
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