Chapter 8

Question 1

List and describe each infection control term.

Answer 1

Asepsis
Sterilization
Disinfection
Cross-contamination

Question 2

List the different things that one might touch while taking x-rays that could transmit pathogens.

Answer 2

Control panel, PID, exposure button, lead apron, film holders

Question 3

Define universal precautions.

Answer 3

Treating all patients as if they are potentially infectious.

Question 3

When are barrier envelopes used?

Answer 3

To protect intraoral films or sensors from contamination.

Question 4

Do patients with AIDS follow the same infection control protocols as other patients?

Answer 4

Follow the same protocols as for all patients, including universal precautions.

Question 5

Define pathogen.

Answer 5

A microorganism that can cause disease.

Question 6

What instruments in radiology are considered semi critical instruments?

Answer 6

Film holders, digital sensor holders that contact mucous membranes.

Question 7

Are eyewear and masks considered optional for dental imaging procedures?

Answer 7

Recommended to protect against splashes and aerosols.

Question 8

What process destroys all pathogens?

Answer 8

Sterilization

Question 9

What is the difference in sterilization and disinfection?

Answer 9

Sterilization kills all forms of life, while disinfections reduces pathogens to safe levels.

Question 10

When are antiseptics used?

Answer 10

Used on skin or living tissue to reduce microbial load.

Question 11

What is a critical instrument?

Answer 11

Instruments that penetrate soft tissue or bone, requiring sterilization.

Question 12

How many hours do instruments need to stay in a “cold sterilization” to achieve sterilization?

Answer 12

Requires a minimum of 6-10 hours in a chemical solution.

Question 13

How long can microorganisms remain viable on radiographic equipment?

Answer 13

Can remain viable for hours to days if not properly disinfected.

Question 14

Is saliva alone considered to be a risk for HIV transmission? Why or why not?

Answer 14

Saliva alone is not a significant risk for HIV transmission.

Question 15

Can PSPs be placed in an autoclave?

Answer 15

PSPs should not be autoclaved; they should be disinfected.

Question 16

Is antibiotic prophylaxis used prior to x-rays? Why or why noy?

Answer 16

X-ray procedures are non-invasive and do not involve the manipulation of gingival tissues, mucosa, or bone, which means they don’t pose a significant
risk of bacteremia or infection.

Antibiotic prophylaxis is usually reserved for
invasive dental procedures that may introduce bacteria into the bloodstream,
particularly for patients at high risk of infective endocarditis or other serious infections.

Question 17

What vaccines are free for employees under OSHA’s standards?

Answer 17

Under the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards, employers are required to offer the Hepatitis B vaccine series free of charge to employees who are at risk of exposure to bloodborne pathogens, such as dental professionals.