Infection control is a critical component of dental practice, especially in light of the current COVID-19 pandemic. Dental practices are required to comply with a range of regulatory and best-practice guidelines, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines for infection control in dental health care settings. One key element of effective infection control in dental practices is the appointment of an Infection Control Coordinator (ICC).

What is an Infection Control Coordinator (ICC)?

An ICC is responsible for overseeing and managing the infection control program in a dental practice. This includes monitoring compliance with infection control guidelines, developing and implementing policies and procedures, providing education and training to staff, and ensuring that all necessary infection control supplies and equipment are available and in good working order.

Why every dental practice needs an ICC?

1)Ensure Compliance with Regulations and Guidelines

Dental practices are subject to a range of regulatory and best-practice guidelines regarding infection control. An ICC is responsible for ensuring that the practice is complying with all relevant regulations and guidelines, including those issued by the CDC and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Compliance with these regulations is critical to maintaining a safe and healthy environment for both patients and staff.

2)Reduce the Risk of Infections

Effective infection control practices can significantly reduce the risk of infections in the dental practice. An ICC can develop and implement policies and procedures that are designed to prevent the transmission of infectious diseases, such as the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), proper hand hygiene, and surface disinfection. By reducing the risk of infections, dental practices can protect their patients and staff and avoid the costly consequences of an outbreak.

3)Increase Patient and Staff Confidence

Patients and staff members expect dental practices to maintain high standards of infection control. By appointing an ICC, dental practices can demonstrate their commitment to providing a safe and healthy environment. This can increase patient and staff confidence and trust in the practice, which can lead to better patient outcomes and a more productive and engaged staff.

4)Save Time and Money

An ICC can help dental practices save time and money by streamlining infection control procedures and reducing the risk of infections. By ensuring that all necessary supplies and equipment are available and in good working order, an ICC can help prevent disruptions to the practice and reduce the need for costly remediation efforts in the event of an outbreak.

Conclusion

In conclusion, every dental practice needs an ICC to ensure compliance with regulations and guidelines, reduce the risk of infections, increase patient and staff confidence, and save time and money. By appointing an ICC and providing the necessary resources and support, dental practices can maintain a safe and healthy environment for their patients and staff and improve the overall quality of care.