11 Unit One: Fundamentals of Infection Control Learning Objectives Upon completion of this unit, you should be able to: 1. Describe the infectious disease process 2. Define the concept of Standard Precautions 3. Discuss the importance of immunizations 4. Learn and implement the CDC- recommended protocols for respiratory hygiene and cough ettiquette 5. Demonstrate proper handwashing technique 6. Describe the personal protective equipment to be used during clinical care 7. Describe what to do following an exposure incident 8. Describe engineering and work practice controls that reduce the risk of exposure to blood and other potentially infectious material 9. Describe infection control techniques for surgical procedures The dental team is more likely to comply with an infection control program if they understand why they have to follow it. Clearly written policies, procedures and guidelines can help ensure consistency, efficiency and effective coordination of activities. The education and training program contained in this workbook provides a convenient and effective means to ensure all members of the dental team are knowledgeable about the prevention and control of infectious diseases and the management of occupational health and safety issues related to infection control in the dental setting. The self-assessment checklists will also allow periodic reassessment of the dental team’s knowledge of the infection control program and will allow you to gauge the need for periodic re-education and training. This unit begins with a discussion of the infectious disease process, including the factors necessary for the transmission of infection, mechanisms of transfer, and information about exposure to agents in the dental health care setting. Following presentation of these topics, information is provided on basic health and infection control practices for the dental team. Among the topics covered are immunizations, post-exposure management and follow-up, medical history and standard precautions, hand hygiene, personal protective equipment (PPE) (e.g., gloves, mask, gown and protective eyewear), contact dermatitis and latex allergy. Infection control involves taking steps to prevent the spread of infectious disease to you and your patients. Although it is not difficult, developing a good infection control plan for your setting requires that you learn some of the basics about infectious diseases and the way in which they are spread in the dental environment.