4 Things a Clinician Can Do If an Office Is Practicing Substandard Infection Control

If hygienists notice the office is not practicing minimum infection prevention standards there are several ways to address this important issue. Dimensions Brand Ambassadors offer 4 ideas on what dental hygienists can do if an office is practicing substandard infection control.

The first thing to do is to bring it to the attention of the office. They might not know any better, or might need help improving. I joined an office that was making some poor choices. And after respectfully informing and using evidence I encouraged them to change and adopt new procedures. Everything didn’t happen at once, but I stressed the big stuff first. I’m happy to say there are protocols and check lists in place now.

Amanda Hill, RDH (@AmandaHillRDH)

Your first step should be to bring it to the dentist’s, office manager’s and / or owner’s attention. Make sure that your approach is tactful and not attacking. With any problem you bring forth, I’m a firm believer you should bring a solution as well. Let them know the problem can be solved quickly and efficiently and often times, offices jump right on board, they just lack information or leadership. If there are serious cross-contamination concerns, then the state needs to be notified so that patients can be notified and properly tested.

Jaci Klepadlo, RDH

Suggest hosting a review! I have done this for a few offices. Gentle reminder from the Centers of Disease, Control and Prevention (CDC) and Organization for Safety, Asepsis and Prevention (OSAP).

Emily Boge, CDA, RDH, MPA

This is an area of great concern and priority for all team members. So the first thing is to address the issue(s) ASAP, I would hope all are on board with making the required changes to be IPAC compliant.

Lisa Hardill, RDH, BHADM