Infection Control

Question 1

How often should biological indicator testing be completed?

Answer 1

At least weekly

Question 2

What is considered regulated medical waste that may be potential sources of infection?

Answer 2

• Solid waste soaked in blood
• Extracted teeth
• Surgically removed hard or soft tissue
• Contaminated sharps

Question 3

What kind of water should be used in dental unit water lines?

Answer 3

Water that meets EPA drinking water standard (no more than 500 CFU/mL of heterotrophic bacteria). This is also the level at which the CDC recommends for dental unit water entering a patient’s mouth

Question 4

What are microorganisms of concern in dental unit water lines?

Answer 4

• Myobacterium
• Pseudomonas
• Legionella

Question 5

Guidelines for exposure determination + prevention

Answer 5

• Discharge air/water for 20-30 sec after each patient
• Anti-retraction valves in water lines
• Water lines - ≤500 CFU/mL
  
  • Need chemical germicides

Question 6

What instruments are critical?

Answer 6

• Penetrates soft tissue, contacts bone, enters into or contacts blood stream
  
  • Surgical instruments, periodontal scalers, scalpels, surgical burs

Question 7

What instruments are semi-critical?

Answer 7

• Contacts mucous membranes or non-intact skin
  
  • Dental mirror or reusable dental trays

Question 8

What instruments are considered non-critical?

Answer 8

• Contacts skin
  
  • Radiograph head