DHY 111 Preclinical Theory and Practice of Dental Hygiene: Patient / Operator Positioning

Vocabulary flashcards covering key concepts of patient and operator positioning, ergonomics, and light/room setup from the notes.

Cumulative Trauma

Disorders of the musculoskeletal system caused by repeated force or trauma.

Ergonomics

The science of designing dental tasks and work environments to optimize quality of care while minimizing physical and mental fatigue.

Infection control procedures

Protocols followed in the treatment room to prevent transmission of infections.

Neutral body position

Clinician posture with feet flat on the floor, thighs parallel to the floor, back straight, head erect, shoulders relaxed, weight supported by the chair; eyes directed downward about 15–22 inches; elbows close at the sides at the height of the patient’s mouth; wrists and forearms in a straight line.

Upright patient position

A basic patient position used for taking vital signs and during clinician–patient discussions.

Semi-upright position

A partially reclined position used for patients with cardiovascular or respiratory problems, and before dismissal.

Supine position

The patient is flat; head, feet, and heart are at the same level; most common position during dental care.

Trendelenburg position

The patient is tipped back 35–45 degrees with the heart higher than the head; used in emergencies.

Contraindications to the supine position

Conditions where supine should be avoided or modified: congestive heart disease, asthma, emphysema, sinusitis, and third-trimester pregnancy.

Maxillary arch light position

Light positioned at a 60-degree angle when working on the maxillary arch.

Mandibular arch light position

Light positioned at a 90-degree angle when working on the mandibular arch.

Head position: maxillary arch

Chin up when working on the maxillary arch.

Head position: mandibular arch

Chin down toward the patient’s chest when working on the mandibular arch.

Right-handed clinician positioning

Typically sits on the right side of the patient during many procedures.

Left-handed clinician positioning

Typically sits on the left side of the patient during many procedures.

Clock-position terminology

Clinical seating described using clock-face references (e.g., 8:00, 9:00, 11:00, 12:00) to describe the operator’s position.

4 basic patient positions

Upright, Semi-upright, Supine, and Trendelenburg.

Chair height aligned with knees

The clinician’s chair height should be even with the knees when standing.

Elbow/wrist alignment in neutral position

Elbows close to the body at the height of the patient’s mouth; wrists and forearms in a straight line.

Eyes position in neutral posture

Eyes directed downward about 15–22 inches from the patient’s mouth.

Head and chair alignment during setup

Back of the patient chair is kept parallel to the floor; operator’s elbow in line with the patient’s mouth.