CHAPTER 10: QUALITY ASSURANCE IN THE DENTAL OFFICE Flashcards
special procedures that are used to ensure the production of high-quality diagnostic images.
Quality assurance
specific tests that are used to maintain and monitor dental x-ray units, supplies, film processing, and digital imaging equipment.
Quality control test
Why are quality control tests necessary
to monitor dental x-ray machines, dental x-ray film, screens and cassettes, and viewing equipment.
who must calibrate dental x-ray equipment to ensure consistent x-ray machine performance and the production of diagnostic radiographs.
a qualified technician
Annual tests for dental x-ray machines can be performed by who ?
dentist, dental assistant, hygienist
Extraoral intensifying screens used within a cassette holder should be periodically examined for what
the presence of any dirt and scratches.
how often should screens be cleaned
monthly basis with commercially available cleaners.
how often should casssette holders be examined ?
every month for worn closures, light leaks and warping.
a light source that is used to view processed films
viewbox
how often should the darkroom be checked
every month
how often should safelighting be checked
every 6 months
one that is processed under ideal conditions and then used to compare the film densities of radiographs that are processed daily.
reference radiograph
a device constructed of layered aluminum steps.
stepwedge
device that can be used to monitor developer strength and film density.
normalizing device
this solution removes the unexposed silver halide crystals on the film that result in “clear” areas on the processed dental image
fixer solution
management of the quality assurance plan in the dental office
quality administration
who is is ultimately responsible for overall quality assurance.
the dentist
ultimately responsible for the diagnostic quality of all dental images exposed in his or her office, regardless of who actually exposes the images.
the dentist
what does a quality assurance plan ensure?
production of high-quality images
includes both quality control tests and quality administration procedures
What does quality administration procedure include
description of the quality assurance plan, assignment of duties, a monitoring schedule.
