Occupational Safety in Dental Practice Flashcards
6 cards from real DANB practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 Occupational Safety in Dental Practice flashcards as text
What is the dental worker's responsibility regarding the one-handed scoop technique for needle recapping?
Answer: It is an acceptable work practice control when recapping is necessary and a safety device is unavailable, using one hand only
The one-handed scoop technique is a secondary control used only when engineering controls aren't feasible, eliminating the at-risk hand from the danger zone.
What occupational hazard does dental material dust present and how should it be controlled?
Answer: Inhalation can cause respiratory sensitization, silicosis, or pulmonary disease, requiring local exhaust ventilation and respiratory protection
Crystalline silica in porcelain can cause silicosis; acrylic dust causes respiratory sensitization; composite dust contains respirable bioactive particles.
What must an exposure incident log contain and who is required to maintain one?
Answer: Required for 11+ employee offices: device type/brand, department, incident description, while protecting employee privacy
The Needlestick Safety and Prevention Act requires the log for 11+ employee offices, with device info, location, and description—retained 5 years.
What radiation safety measures protect dental workers during intraoral radiography?
Answer: Proper collimation, patient lead apron/thyroid collar, 6-foot minimum distance or barrier, and monitoring badge if required
ALARA principle: collimation, patient shielding, operator positioning at least 6 feet away at 90-135° from beam or behind a barrier, and dosimetry monitoring per state regulations.
What workplace violence prevention measures should exist in a dental practice?
Answer: Written prevention program, employee training on recognition and de-escalation, emergency procedures, and incident reporting
OSHA recommends comprehensive prevention: hazard assessment, written policies, training, emergency procedures, incident reporting, and post-incident support.
What ergonomic risk factors in dental practice contribute to musculoskeletal disorders?
Answer: Sustained static postures, repetitive motions, forceful exertions, awkward positions, and vibration from handpieces
Multiple physical risk factors combine in dentistry, requiring multi-faceted prevention: equipment design, positioning, and work habit modifications.