Infection control is of prime importance in this practice. It is essential to the safety of our patients, our families and ourselves.
The Decontamination lead in this practice is Lucy Sharples, who is responsible for all decontamination and infection control procedures, and to whom all queries should be addressed.
We strictly adhere to the essential requirements of the HTM01-05 (Health Technical Memorandum for Dental Practices). We are aware that this is a working document and recommendations are subject to change at any time, therefore it is reviewed on a regular basis by Lucy Sharples.
We fully comply with outcome 8 of the CQC’s essential standards of quality and safety CQC regulations. (Cleanliness and infection control)
We adopt a universally safe technique for all patients and it is assumed that each patient in the surgery is a cross infection risk. Therefore all working areas used during treatment and decontamination processes are kept clear. Zones are clearly identifiable as clean or contaminated and cleaned and disinfected after each process using Dentisan Biocleanse wipes.
Training is given in all aspects of infection control and decontamination on a yearly basis and protocols are discussed during regular practice meetings. The relevant policies can be found in the central policy folder and this must be adhered to at all times. Any queries are addressed to Lucy Sharples immediately. (See infection control policy and decontamination policy)
All staff are regularly trained and competent to carry out effective hand washing and this is observed and recorded on a frequent basis. Gloves are worn at all times where there is a risk of cross infection or decontamination, and are changed before moving from dirty to clean areas. Hands are washed at the beginning and end of each session and cleaned between each patient using Hibisol before donning a new pair of gloves. (See hand hygiene policy)
Infection control audits are carried out on a six monthly basis and a decontamination room audit which includes validation of sterilizing equipment, PPE (personal protective equipment) and the decontamination process is carried out on a yearly basis. The results of both audits are recorded and discussed at the following practice meeting.
All staff are immunised against hepatitis B, rubella, tetanus, polio, tuberculosis (and varicella, if non-immune). Records of immunization status are kept in the office.
For further information please see Lucy Sharples or see the infection control and decontamination policies available.