Infection Control

What are the three instrument categories?

• Critical → penetrate tissues/bone

• Semi-Critical → contact mucous membrane/non-intact skin

• Non-critical → contact intact skin

What is the purpose of PPE?

Prevent disease transmission

• Utility gloves

• Mask

• Eyewear

• Protective clothing

What are the two main routes of exposure?

• Percutaneous injury (needle stick/cut)

• Mucous membrane contact

What are the requirements of the instrument processing area?

• Designated area

• Separate from operators/lab

• No outside openings

What are the three instrument cleaning methods?

• Hand scrubbing (least desirable)

• Ultrasonic cleaner

• Instrument washer

What is the purpose of a holding solution?

Prevent drying of blood if cleaning is delayed

Why are instruments packaged before sterilization & what is flash sterilization?

Packaging prevents contamination after sterilization

• Flash = unwrapped items for immediate use

What are the sterilization methods & settings?

• Autoclave → 250’F, 15-30 min

• Dry heat → 320-375’F

• Chemical sterilants (for heat-sensitive items)

What chemical sterilant is used?

Glutaraldehyde

• Contact time: 10 hrs

• Used for plastics, rubber dam frames, shade guides, X-ray holders

What are the types of sterilization monitoring?

• Chemical (external/internal)

• Process indicators (external)

• Integrators (internal)

• Biologic (spore testing)

What is the correct operatory disinfection sequence & requirment?

• Spray → Wipe → Spray

• Keep surface wet 10 minutes

What are the steps for surface barriers?

• Wash hands

• Place/secure barriers

• Remove wit utility gloves

• Discard, Disinfect, Repace

What are key ultrasonic cleaner steps & time?

• PPE

• Fill Solution

• Place instruments

• Run 5-15 min

• Rinse

• Dry/Remove

What are key sterilization precautions?

• Do not overload

• Follow manufacturer

• Proper water

• Vent steam

• Dry/Cool

• Store clean