8 Ways to Care for Hand Hygiene in Dentistry

There are numerous documented cases where healthcare personnel have transmitted infections to patients, especially in in-patient settings such as hospitals and long term care facilities. The risk of transmitting these illnesses is highest when hands contact bodies or fluids that microorganisms from other people’s mouths may contaminate (i.e., handwashing). Time after again, it has been shown how important it can be to get rid of all visible dirt before touching someone else’s mouth. There are many home care like lakewood fall prevention care for elderly, and other home care services take care of such things for the elderly to keep them safe from any infectious disease.

dentistry hand hygiene

Hand hygiene is one of the most important ways to prevent infection. It is also one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect yourself and others from illness. Good hand hygiene includes washing hands with soap and water and using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

There are many opportunities for hand hygiene in dentistry, including before and after patient contact, before and after glove use, after removing gloves, and after touching contaminated surfaces. Below are eight tips for good hand hygiene in dentistry:

Dental health is important for many reasons. Good oral hygiene prevents cavities and gum disease and helps keep your teeth and gums healthy. One of the most important aspects of dental care is hand hygiene. Here are eight ways to care for hand hygiene in dentistry:

1. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer:

If soap and water are not available, you can use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. It is the quickest and most effective way to kill bacteria and other germs on your hands. Be sure to choose a product that contains at least 60% alcohol. Apply the sanitizer to the palm of one hand and rub it over all surfaces of your hands until they are dry.

2. Wash your hands with soap and water:

If your hands are visibly dirty or contaminated with blood or other body fluids, wash them with soap and water. It is the most effective way to remove bacteria and other contaminants from your hands. Be sure to lather your hands well and scrub for at least 20 seconds. Rinse thoroughly with clean water. Use warm water if it is available.

3. Use gloves:

When cleaning or performing procedures, wear gloves to protect your hands from contact with blood, body fluids and other contaminants. Be sure to change gloves between patients and after contact with contaminated surfaces. Gloves protect your hands from contact with blood, body fluids, and other potentially infectious materials.

4. Avoid touching your face:

Touching your eyes, nose, or mouth can transfer bacteria and other germs to your body. If you must touch your face, wash your hands first.

5. Cover cuts and wounds:

If you have any cuts or open wounds on your hands, cover them with a bandage to prevent the spread of infection.

6. Clean surfaces:

Bacteria can live on surfaces for several hours. Be sure to clean all surfaces that come into contact with patients, including door handles, countertops, and dental chairs. Be sure to clean and disinfect all dental instruments and surfaces before each patient appointment. Use an autoclave to sterilize instruments that come into contact with blood or body fluids.

7. Dispose of needles and sharps properly:

Used needles and other sharp instruments can transmit infection. Be sure to place used needles and sharps in a puncture-resistant container. Do not leave needles or sharps lying on surfaces where they can be reused or accidentally stuck.

8. Follow standard precautions:

Standard precautions are infection control measures that protect healthcare workers from exposure to blood, body fluids, and other potentially infectious materials. Be sure to follow all standard precautions when providing dental care.

Note:

Enforcing a strict handwashing policy is one of the most important ways to ensure good hand hygiene in dentistry. All dental staff should be properly trained in how to wash their hands correctly, and there should be adequate supplies of soap and water available at all times. All surfaces in the dental office should be clean and free of contaminants, and good personal hygiene habits should be encouraged among all staff members. A “no-touch” policy should be implemented as much as possible to minimize the spread of germs, and all areas of the dental office should be regularly disinfected.