The coronavirus outbreak has affected every aspect of life. Schools have been closed, workplaces have been closed, and businesses have had to implement safety protocols. Among all these changes, the biggest impact was on the healthcare sector.
Healthcare institutions must implement all necessary safety measures to protect both patients and healthcare personnel, as this is where the risk of disease transmission is highest.
COVID-19 is a disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The virus can spread from one person to another through respiratory droplets from a sick person. When an infected person coughs, sneezes or even talks, droplets can remain suspended in the air and infect anyone who comes into direct contact with the patient or is within 6 feet of them.
As you can imagine, the risk of contracting COVID-19 increases significantly in environments such as dental clinics where a patient's mouth is open. While dentists are well-versed in controlling the transmission of blood-borne diseases, controlling air-borne diseases is somewhat of an unexplored area. Therefore, new measures have been implemented to limit the spread of this epidemic.
Screening Patients Before Appointments
The first thing dental clinics do , is calling patients before scheduling an appointment. During the phone interview, patients are asked about their health conditions, whether they have recently exhibited symptoms of a cold or flu-like infection, and whether they have recently traveled abroad. When they enter the clinic, they are informed about the social distance, the need to wear a mask, and the hygiene protocols.
Preparing the Patient to Enter the Clinic
When the patient arrives, they are asked to wear shoe covers before entering the clinic. . Disinfectant is given for hands and temperature is measured.
Hygiene and Disinfection Measures
Patients showing symptoms of COVID-19 are asked to reschedule their appointment, however, as dentists know that some SARS-CoV-2 carriers may be completely asymptomatic. They follow strict measures to ensure hygiene. Strengthened among these measures These include regular hand hygiene, regular surface and equipment disinfection, and wearing personal protective equipment.
Reducing Oral Aerosols and Droplets
Increasing the risk of contamination in dental settings. What makes it worse is that regular aerosol use causes these particles to remain suspended in the air for long periods of time. To reduce aerosols and droplets, dental clinics use a larger diameter saliva ejector, attempt to evacuate air regularly, and use rubber dams to minimize or prevent contamination.
Appropriate Ventilation
Since any droplet can remain suspended in the air for hours, proper ventilation is of utmost necessity. To properly control the transmission of all airborne diseases, dental clinics use air purifiers with HEPA technology, install powerful fans, disinfect equipment using UV light after each patient, and use antiviral disinfectant sprays. If possible, they may also use negative pressure rooms.
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