So, Dr. Dentist, do you know all there is to know about infection control in the dental practice? Are you keeping up with policies and regulations? I’m guessing your answer is “no.” Or, it could be that you think you’re on top of it all, but you’re really not. And I don’t say that because I think you lack an understanding of how critical infection control is to the safety of your patients and staff and the business of your practice; I just think that you’re incredibly busy being a dentist.
So, my next question for you is this: If you don’t have someone on your staff who serves as an infection control coordinator, don’t you think the time has come? If you’re not sure, consider this job description:
- Develop, implement, and monitor policies and standard operating procedures
- Maintain regulatory and guidance documents and make them available to all staff
- Keep permits, licenses, and documents up to date
- Create, update, and maintain safety-related records
- Serve as an infection control resource to all staff
- Provide training and education
- Monitor sterilization logs and checklists for compliance
- Verify staff immunizations are up to date.
Another key role for the infection control coordinator is equipment and supply ordering and maintenance. That requires good research skills—learning about the best new autoclaves, disinfecting solutions, and personal protective equipment. For example, Dental Product Shopper is a great source of information about sterilization equipment and other infection control products.
The bottom line is that the infection control coordinator role requires someone who’s organized, detail-oriented, and has a deep understanding of the importance of infection control and adhering to all of the accompanying regulations and policies. Look around. Does someone in your office fit that description? Once you find the best person for the job, provide him or her with the support and resources necessary to do the job right. OSAP offers a variety of checklists and publications—as well as continuing education, workshops, and seminars—to make sure your infection control coordinator keeps your practice safe for everyone.