DENT1415

This course will enable the dental assisting student to function effectively as part of the dental health team within the concepts of infection control, the bloodborne pathogens and hazard communication standards. It will include infection control recommendations for dentistry from the CDC (Center for Disease Control and Prevention), OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration), OSAP (Organization for Safety and Asepsis) and the ADA (American Dental Association) protecting the patient and the dental health care worker. Topics of discussion include but are not limited to microorganisms and infectious diseases and their means of transmission, instrument processing, surface and equipment asepsis and managing chemicals safely in the dental office.Student Learning Outcomes

• Recognize the role played by governmental, state and professional organizations in relationship to infection control in dentistry.
• Explain the concepts of how microorganisms cause diseases including types and stages of infections and the function of the immune system in relation to breaking the chain of disease transmission.
• Describe the rationale for performing infection control procedures utilized to interfere with the mode of transmission of microbial spread in the dental office.
• Explain the components of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration Bloodborne Pathogen Standard as it relates to infection control protocols in dentistry.
• Recognize the principles and techniques of disinfection and instrument processing and sterilization according to specified guidelines.
• Explain the components of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration Hazard Communication Program in relation to chemical and waste management in the dental setting.