WE Flashcards
COLLABARITIVELY
- Observed a dental team collaborating on a patient’s treatment plan,
- considering their medical conditions (e.g., hypertension, arthritis), dental health (gum issues, tooth decay)
mobility challenges.
Each team member (dentist, hygienist, nurse) contributed insights to create a tailored care plan, including softer toothbrushes, specialized mouthwash, and more frequent check-ups to address the patient’s unique needs.
Demonstrated the importance of interdisciplinary teamwork in delivering holistic patient care.
EMPATHY
Patient anxious about cosmetic treatment results.
Listened to concerns and acknowledged their importance.
Reassured that uncertainty is normal in cosmetic procedures.
Explained the process and how the treatment aligned with their goals.
Emphasized the team’s support throughout the process.
Helped the patient feel more confident by addressing their worries.
TEAMWORK
between dental nurse and dentist
- efficiency - room always ready
- made patient at ease while dentist sorted x-rays
- funny patient joined in on convos
COMMUNICATION
- oral cancer guy
influence carreer
Impact on Health and Confidence: Saw how dentistry improves both physical health and emotional well-being, especially in cosmetic procedures.
Empathy in Patient Care: Observed dental professionals addressing emotional concerns, boosting patients’ confidence with tailored treatments.
Scientific Knowledge and Practical Skills: Impressed by the blend of technical expertise and hands-on care in dentistry, offering opportunities for continuous learning.
Teamwork in Healthcare: Witnessed how dental professionals collaborate to create comprehensive care plans, highlighting the importance of teamwork in patient outcomes.
Inspiration to Pursue Dentistry: Motivated by the chance to combine scientific curiosity, helping others, and improving self-esteem
Can you describe a time when you had to adapt during your dental work experience?
Unexpected Patient Anxiety: While shadowing, I observed a patient who became extremely nervous before their procedure, delaying the appointment.
Adapting to Support the Team: I noticed how the dental team adjusted their approach, speaking in a calmer tone and explaining each step more thoroughly to reassure the patient.
Observing Alternative Techniques: The dentist modified their usual approach by allowing the patient extra time to relax, using distraction techniques and pausing when necessary.
Reflecting on Adaptability: I learned that flexibility is key in dentistry—every patient is different, and adapting to their needs improves their experience and treatment outcome.
Applying This Lesson: Moving forward, I will apply this by remaining patient-focused, being prepared for unexpected challenges, and developing strong communication skills to adapt to different situations.
indivdual requirements
Patient with Limited Mobility: Patient in a wheelchair, struggled with sitting still for long periods
Room Setup Adjustments: Adjusted chair height and added extra cushioning for back and neck support
Frequent Check-Ins: Regularly checked with the patient during the procedure to ensure comfort and offer breaks if needed
Efficient Treatment: Dentist minimized procedure length and incorporated pauses for patient comfort
Personalized Care: Learned the importance of adapting care to meet individual physical limitations and ensure the best patient experience.
sterilisation
Sterilisation & PPE: Observed strict sterilisation of instruments and use of PPE (gloves, masks, etc.) to prevent cross-contamination
Surface Disinfection & Hand Hygiene: Saw frequent disinfection of surfaces and emphasised hand hygiene to reduce infection risks
Aseptic Techniques & Waste Disposal: Followed aseptic techniques during procedures and proper disposal of contaminated materials
Patient & Team Safety: Learned infection control is crucial for both patient safety and the health of the dental team
interesting case
Patient with Diabetes: Patient with diabetes required additional attention during a routine dental cleaning due to the impact diabetes can have on oral health.
Blood Sugar Monitoring: The dentist ensured the patient’s blood sugar levels were stable and advised they hadn’t recently eaten to prevent complications during the procedure and promote better healing.
Oral Health Considerations: Dentist explained the connection between diabetes and increased risk of gum disease, emphasizing the need for diligent oral hygiene to prevent issues like gingivitis or periodontal disease.
Treatment Adaptation: Learned how diabetes can delay healing and increase the risk of infections, making it necessary for dental professionals to adjust treatment plans accordingly for safe and effective care.
personal development
Recognizing Areas for Improvement in Knowledge: While shadowing, I observed how the dentist explained complex treatment plans to patients. I realised I need to improve my understanding of dental terminology and treatment options to better comprehend and assist in patient care - dedication to building long term memory and commitment to lifelong learning
Reflecting on Professionalism: Seeing how the dental team worked efficiently together, I reflected on the importance of teamwork, punctuality, and professionalism in creating a positive patient experience and smooth clinic operation - I plan to implement this by consistently ensuring that I am well-prepared, respectful of others’ time, and always maintaining a professional attitude in all my future roles
dental hygenist/ therapist. nurse
- setting up of equipment and tools
know what’s for what, when to give it and why - helping with suctions and passing equipment - assisting with sterilising - each particular piece of equipment has guidelines on sterilisation, following under time constraints
- patient communication - communicating effectively - adjusting approach - using patient rapport
suprise
preventative care
multitasking
emotional support
performing a case
wisdom tooth
- calmed patient
- ensured consent
- anaesthesia: side effects - potential feeling - how long it takes to wear off - monitor response
- forceps to remove tooth
- nurse suctioned
- provides sterile gauze
- provides after care
- accompanied them to waiting room where parents were
- sterilised
