Biomedical subjects

Helene Bednarsh

Publications and source records attributed to Helene Bednarsh.

3 recordsLinked to original sources

PubMed2005

OSHA--what is its role in dentistry and how do we provide training?

The mission of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is to ensure the safety and health of America's workers. Although OSHA's focus is on safety, there is a natural overlap into the infection control arena. The work practice control, engineering control, and personal protective equipment regulations are examples of OSHA safety topics that have a direct impact on dental infection control. In a similar fashion, the regulations designed to protect the dental health care worker often translate into increased safety for the dental patient. To ensure their safety, OSHA requires workers to be appropriately trained. This article reviews the regulatory significance of OSHA, compares OSHA with other regulatory and advisory agencies, and discusses OSHA's training requirements. Principles for conducting training in the dental health care setting along with suggestions for assessing training also are presented.

Age Factors↗

PubMed2004

Infection control guidelines, the new generation.

Attention to infection control and concerns over transmission of disease is not a new phenomenon relative to the human immunodeficiency virus epidemic. There is evidence dating back to the early part of the 19th century of theories and practices designed to minimize infection risks associated with health care delivery. These strategies were not necessarily based in research, or what is referred to as evidence-based, but more on observation. Nonetheless, the practices were successful and evolved over time into principles of infection control. Over the past decade, guidelines for infection control have become evidence-based, where possible. In the absence of evidence, assumptions based on past experience and knowledge have driven recommendations. The newly released Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Guideline for Infection Control in Dental Health-Care Settings, 2003, reflect a format different from the 1993 guidelines, and the recommendations are ranked according to categories of existing scientific data, theoretical rationale, and the opinions of experts.

Blood-Borne Pathogens↗

PubMed2002

Management of occupational exposure to hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and human immunodeficiency virus.

The primary focus in occupational injury management is the prevention of injuries before they take place through standard precautions, personal protective equipment, and administrative, work practice, and engineering controls. However, should an exposure occur, prompt and appropriate response may reduce the risk of bloodborne pathogen transmission. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently released an updated guideline for postexposure management after occupational exposure to hepatitis B, hepatitis C, or human immunodeficiency virus. This article reviews the steps that should be taken to prevent exposure to bloodborne pathogens as well as the appropriate response in the event of an exposure. In addition, the CDC's updated guidelines for postexposure management will be reviewed.

Blood-Borne Pathogens↗