6 THE ADA PRACTICAL GUIDE TO EFFECTIVE INFECTION CONTROL Infection Control Self-assessment Checklist Read each of the items listed below and specify how often you do each (never, sometimes, always) by checking the space provided. How Often Do You: Never Sometimes Always 1. Wash hands before and after wearing gloves n n n 2. Wear gloves while treating patients n n n 3. Wear mask when procedure involves spatter n n n 4. Wear protective eyewear when procedure involves spatter n n n 5. Quickly report exposure incidents n n n 6. Use the same infection control procedures for all patients n n n 7. Protect dental records, charts and radiographs from handling and contamination during patient treatment n n n 8. Keep operatory free of unnecessary items n n n 9. Remove jewelry before treatment n n n 10. Clean dental unit waterlines according to manufacturer’s instructions n n n 11. Monitor dental unit waterline quality regularly n n n 12. If recapping is necessary, use a method for recapping needles that does not involve holding cap with fingers n n n 13. Use a high-volume evacuation system when using ultrasonic and air-turbine procedures n n n 14. Wear protective clothing during patient care n n n 15. Wear utility gloves when decontaminating the operatory n n n 16. Discard sharp disposable items in a non-breakable, puncture proof container n n n 17. Clean, disinfect and sterilize items in a separate area maintained specifically for this purpose n n n