Training

Question 1

Introduction

Answer 1

hygienists, therapists, clinical technicians + dental nurses who are IRMER practitioners + operate x-ray machines must have adequate training in accordance to relevant regulations

Question 2

The National Radiological Protection Board

Answer 2

describes trained DCP as ‘possess a certificate in dental radiography conforming to syllabus prescribed by the college of radiographers’.

Question 3

They also state

Answer 3

that those who operate x-ray machines are recommended to attend continuing eduction + training course every 5 years to comply with IRMER2000

Question 4

Appropriate courses would be expected to cover:

Answer 4

principles of radiation physics, risks of ionising radiation, radiation doses in dental radiography, factors affecting dose, principles of radiation protection, statutory requirements + quality assurance

Question 5

DCP’s

Answer 5

whose duties include other aspects of radiography (processing, clinical evaluations + quality assurance) must received adequate documented training - may be provided ‘in house’

Question 6

The GDC advises DCPs should

Answer 6

undertake 5 hours of verifiable CPD in dental radiography + radiation protection in each 5 year CPD cycle

Question 7

The guidance notes for dental p’s on safe use of x-ray equipment state

Answer 7

dental nurses who press exposure button that has been physically set up by trained operator. may only do so in continued presence, direct supervision of that operator. must have received documented instruction appropriate to this task