4 THE ADA PRACTICAL GUIDE TO EFFECTIVE INFECTION CONTROL How to Use This Program Who Should Use It This program is designed for use by all dental health care personnel, including dentists, hygienists, assistants, dental laboratory technicians and administrative staff. The program can form the basis of a comprehensive infection control program for the dental office or other treatment setting. How to Begin Although this program may be implemented in many ways, it will be most effective if used in an organized manner. It is suggested that all members of the dental team proceed through each unit together. This approach has several advantages: • It can help to ensure that all members of the team have completed the material • Staff meetings can be used to answer questions and ensure that all employees understand the material • It facilitates the goal setting and implementation phase, because all members can be involved in these activities To Use This Program 1. Begin by completing the Self-assessment Checklist as a way of reviewing current infection control practices and knowledge. Each member of the dental team involved in patient care should complete the self-assessment. Keep the program copy as an original. When additional copies are required, you may photocopy the form. By comparing team members’ results, you will be able to determine the consistency of infection control efforts and any differences in perception, opinions or practices among individuals. 2. After completing the self-assessment, proceed through each unit, one at a time, in order, beginning with Unit One. Review the video segment first. Then read the workbook material. The workbook presents a more detailed discussion of issues than is possible in the video segment. Consequently, the video segment should not be considered a substitute for the workbook. 3. Complete the review questions for each unit before proceeding to the next one. Again, keep the form included with the program as an original. Make photocopies as needed. A staff meeting is useful for answering questions and clarifying the material.