CDT Infection Control & Safety Standards

Question 1

Why is hand hygiene critical in the dental lab?

Accepted Answer

To prevent the spread of infection

Answer

Hand hygiene, encompassing thorough handwashing or the use of alcohol-based sanitizers, is critically important in a dental lab to prevent the transmission of microorganisms. Dental technicians handle impressions, models, and appliances that may carry bacteria or viruses. Proper hand hygiene protects both the technician from potential infection and prevents cross-contamination of materials and finished products, ensuring patient safety.

Question 2

What is the purpose of personal protective equipment (PPE)?

Accepted Answer

To protect against infectious agents

Answer

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), such as gloves, masks, and eye protection, serves as a vital barrier between the dental technician and potential workplace hazards. In the dental lab, this primarily includes protecting against exposure to infectious agents from impressions or models, as well as safeguarding against chemical splashes, dust, and airborne particles generated during various fabrication processes. PPE is essential for maintaining a safe working environment.

Question 3

How should dental instruments be cleaned before sterilization?

Accepted Answer

By thorough cleaning to remove visible debris

Answer

Before sterilization, dental instruments must undergo thorough cleaning to remove all visible debris, blood, and organic matter, a process known as pre-cleaning. This crucial step, often involving scrubbing or ultrasonic cleaning, is essential because sterilization agents cannot effectively penetrate and kill microorganisms if they are shielded by bioburden. Effective pre-cleaning ensures the subsequent sterilization process is successful in eliminating pathogens.

Question 4

Why are sharps containers used?

Accepted Answer

To store disposable sharp items safely

Answer

Sharps containers are rigid, puncture-resistant containers specifically designed for the safe disposal of contaminated sharp items like needles, scalpel blades, and orthodontic wires. Their use is paramount in preventing accidental needlestick injuries to dental professionals and waste handlers. This practice significantly reduces the risk of transmitting bloodborne pathogens and ensures a safer working environment in the dental lab.

Question 5

What is the key principle of standard precautions?

Accepted Answer

Treat all fluids as potentially infectious

Answer

Standard precautions are a set of infection control practices where all human blood, body fluids, secretions, excretions (except sweat), non-intact skin, and mucous membranes are treated as potentially infectious. This universal approach ensures that healthcare workers and patients are protected from transmissible infectious agents, regardless of a known diagnosis. It minimizes the risk of disease transmission in any clinical or laboratory setting.

(CDT) Certified Dental Technicians Practice Test

(CDT) Certified Dental Technicians Practice Test

CDT Infection Control & Safety Standards