Infection Control in Dental Faculty
University Malaya
Hashim Yaacob
Certain measures are taken at the University of Malaya of Dentistry to prevent cross infection. All patients are treated with precautions, those in known risk groups even more so. The design of the dental cubicles and equipments in the polyclinics are styled for easy cleaning and desinfection. Disinfectants are widely used for objects that cannot be sterilized. Sterilization of instruments and accessories are mainly done by autoclaves. Sterilized objects are stored in aseptic conditions. Disposables are carefully assorted into strategically-placed containers for timely disposal.
The dentist and his assistant practice self-protection against needlestick injuries. Protection for the hands ( hand washes, gloves, covering of wounds ), eyes ( goggles, facial screens ), and face ( masks ). Overalls are knee-length and long-sleeved. Emergency treatments for needlestick injuries and inflicted wounds by sharps are readily available. Vaccination against hepatitis B is available for all staff members, while those for tetanus, tuberculosis and poliomyelitis are nationally mandatory.
The dental technicians are instructed in relevant procedures. The dental surgery is cleaned by dental assistants with general cleaners cleaning the floors.
Strict special infection control procedures are observed in specific disciplines like oral surgery and in conditions like immunocompromised patients.