Standard precautions

Question 1

Standard precaution

Answer 1

The term is to assume that any patient may be infected with any microorganism at any time and therefore pose an infection risk to all dental staff and other patients.

Question 2

2.

Answer 2

We must therefore ensure that the same levels of infection control are maintained at all times regardless of a patient’s medical history

Question 3

Hand hygiene

Answer 3

Is crucial in preventing the spread of infection and recontamination of items. Should be an integral part of staff induction.

• the use of gloves does not replace the need for cleaning your hands
• nails should be kept short, no fake nails, nail varnish and cuts should be covered with waterproof dressing
• working bare below the elbow encourages effective hand hygiene