PubMed · 1072485
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A R Krause. 1975. Auxiliary duties revised.. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1072485/
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PURPOSE OF STUDY: To explore the recruitment and retention of dental nurses and dental hygienists working in general dental practice in West Kent, and to identify training needs. BASIC PROCEDURE: Questionnaire survey of 195 general dental practices in West Kent. MAIN FINDINGS: Problems with turnover of staff were reported by 19% of practices. Some 49% of practices reported difficulties in recruiting dental nurses, 6% had experienced difficulties recruiting dental hygienists, and 15% had difficulties recruiting both nurses and hygienists. The median length of service for both dental nurses and dental hygienists was five years. Approximately 39% of practices had advertised single posts three or more times. Difficulties in recruiting were related more strongly to ensuring the right person for the job, than to a shortage of applicants. PRINCIPAL CONCLUSIONS: Difficulties in the recruitment and retention of dental nurses and dental hygienists were reported by dental practices in West Kent. These are likely to be exacerbated by the requirement that all dental nurses be registered with the General Dental Council.
BACKGROUND: Like other health care workers, dental professionals are at risk of developing allergic contact dermatitis, or ACD, after exposure to allergenic chemicals. Common allergens include antimicrobials, preservatives, rubber additives and methacrylates. CASE DESCRIPTION: The authors describe an orthodontic assistant with severe skin disease, whose symptoms included redness, cracking and bleeding that persisted for 10 years. The patient had previously received an incomplete diagnosis. After performing patch testing, assessing symptoms and evaluating the patient's medical history, the authors diagnosed ACD resulting from exposure to several dental allergens. The patient received appropriate treatment and counseling to better manage her allergies; this resulted in resolution of all symptoms and averted permanent occupational disability. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: Not all skin reactions are related to gloves or natural rubber latex. Dental professionals should be aware of common chemical allergens, symptoms of ACD and the appropriate treatment of occupational skin disease.