Biomedical subjects
Publications and source records attributed to R J Whitacre.
Healing the whole person-mind, body, spirit-cannot be forgotten in this world of critical care and high-technology medicine. It is the chaplain, one of many on the multidisciplinary care team, who is a reminder of this most important focus.
The emphasis of this article is to explain the utility of incorporating disposable, single-use environmental-surface infection control barriers into dental office infection control programs. Use of barriers in dental operatories and x-ray rooms can increase infection control effectiveness, reduce operatory turn-around time between patients, and actually reduce office time and expenses associated with infection control. This article is not intended to be a cookbook on how to do it, but rather a guide to the understanding of why dentists should consider using disposable barriers in place of chemical disinfectants wherever possible. Understanding the barrier concept will enable readers to problem-solve their own facility's needs and to select appropriate materials on their own.
Reduction of the potential for cross-contamination in prosthodontics may be accomplished in the following ways: 1. Use surface covers such as clear plastic wraps or bags over instruments like face-bow, articulators, and torch handles. 2. Disinfect surfaces with chemical agents such as 1% iodine surgical scrub in 70% isopropyl alcohol in a ratio of 1:2 to 1:20. 3. Use unit-doses of petroleum jelly, impression materials, waxes, indelible pencils, etc. 4. Use mechanical sterilization to sterilize prosthodontic instruments as "set ups" not commonly thought compatible with the mechanical sterilization process (wood-handled knives, spatulas, Boley gauges, bite forks, impression trays, metal rulers, and acrylic resin burs). 5. Use chemical disinfectants such as Cidex, 2% glutaraldehyde; iodophor solution, 1% stock iodine diluted to 0.5% to 0.05% in 70% isopropyl alcohol; and 5.25% sodium hypochlorite diluted to 0.5% to 0.05% with tap water to disinfect removable partial denture frameworks, acrylic resin impression trays, immediate dentures, and mold and shade guide teeth. 6. Use a mask and latex disposable examination gloves during all patient contact. Efficient application of these recommendations will reduce the potential for disease transmission during the delivery of health care.
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