Sterilization
We are concerned about your safety and many hours have gone into research to develop a plan to keep you safe while you are at our office. We follow strict guidelines from the Center for Disease Control, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, the ADA, the National Institute of Health, the Department of Human and Health Services, and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Many of these steps are completed before you get to our office.
Sterilization and disinfection
Sterilization is the process, which all forms of microorganisms -- including viruses, bacteria, fungi and spores - are destroyed. We use Steam under pressure (autoclave) and aerosol disinfectant to accomplish this. Between each patient, countertops and dental equipment surfaces are thoroughly wiped with a surface disinfectant. The instruments are place into an ultrasonic cleaner, then bagged and placed into the autoclave for sterilization. After sterilization, the instruments are stored in the sealed packages until they are used. All items that can be damaged by heat are immersed for 6 to 10 hours in an EPA-registered chemical sterilant.
Each week we test our autoclave to make sure it is working properly by killing all the necessary microorganisms. We place a test strip in the autoclave and run it through a cycle. We then send the test strip to the monitoring systems company. The monitoring company sends a report verifying the autoclave is working properly.
Barrier techniques
Gloves: Gloves are worn when skin contact with body fluids is likely to occur or when touching items or surfaces that may be contaminated with these fluids. After contact with each patient, gloves are removed and hands are washed and then regloved before treating another patient. Repeated use of a single pair of gloves by disinfecting them between patients is not acceptable. Latex or vinyl gloves are used for patient examinations and procedures. We are aware that allergic reactions to latex gloves or the cornstarch powder in gloves have been reported in health care workers and patients. To reduce the possibility of such reactions, vinyl plastic gloves are available.
Protective clothing: Lab jackets are worn when clothing or skin is likely to be exposed to body fluids. Protective clothing is changed when visibly soiled or penetrated by fluids. We do not wear these garments outside the work area.
Masks: Surgical masks are worn to protect the face when airborne fluids are anticipated. Masks are changed when visibly soiled or wet.
Protective eyewear: Protective eyewear, in combination with a mask, is worn to protect the eyes when splatter and splash of body fluids are anticipated. Eyewear is cleaned as necessary.
Rachelle M Boudreau DDS, Family Dentistry - Providing services in mercury free cosmetic and restorative dentistry, porcelain veneers and tooth whitening to the area of Cincinnati, Ohio.
Cincinnati Family Dentistry
© copyright 2006 - 2008, Dr. Rachelle M Boudreau - Hornbrook Group Doctor, all rights reserved
