DTUK1010

17Infection Control TribuneApril 19-25, 2010United Kingdom Edition S topping cross-infection is a ceaseless war of attri- tion against an implacable, unseen enemy whose storm troopers are carried into every healthcare facility worldwide on the clothing, the skin, even the breath of every person who en- ters the premises. The most vital elements in checking the enemy’s advance are the training and the vigi- lance of the defenders, and eve- ry member of a dental practice team has a role to play in block- ing the transfer of pathogens from patient to patient, clinician to clinician, or even to the post- man or delivery driver. From the consultant implant surgeon to the receptionist, rigid adherence to established hygiene protocols is a personal, professional and social responsibility. Aware of danger While existing staff must guard against complacency, new re- cruits must immediately be made aware of the dangers and receive comprehensive infection control training before they are permitted to start work. Even those with previous experience must be advised of the precise hygiene schedules adopted by their new practice, as anti-infec- tion procedures and equipment will naturally vary according to the different physical character- istics and treatments offered by each practice. Individual staff members must always assume the re- sponsibility for their own safety. Inevitably, clinical staff present during invasive treatments are at greater risk and need to ex- ercise increased vigilance over their own health. They should voice any concerns as they arise, and seek prompt medi- cal advice in cases of doubt. They need to be fully trained in the wearing and use of barrier protection (aprons, gloves, gog- gles), and should take advantage of the security offered by im- munisation from common infections such as measles, mumps and rubella. For those who come into contact with blood or other bodily fluids, pro- tection is also available against hepatitis B. Getting rid of waste The battleground extends be- yond the surgery into the area of waste disposal. The growing popularity of single use instruments and sundries with some practitioners high- lights the need for care in hand- ling contaminated materials. There are also legal constr- aints on the disposal of many chemicals and cleaning agents, and obvious risks are attached to handling contaminated sha- rps, whether for re-sterilisation or disposal. Training should always in- clude the procedures to be followed in the event of an accident. If an elderly patient should have a fall, for exam- page 18DTà Preparing for a ceaseless attack Richard Musgrave of Schülke talks about why it is essential to make sure you minimise the risk of cross-infection in all areas of the practice ‘new recruits must immediately be made aware of the dangers and re- ceive comprehensive infection control training before they are permitted to start work’