Disinfection and Sterilization: A Primer
hosted byDentaltown, L.L.CDisinfection and Sterilization: A Primer is organized by Dentaltown, L.L.C.
Released: 8/11/2006
Review Date: 6/30/2022
Expiration Date: 6/30/2025
Overview:
This lecture contains a practical, rational, and economical approach to instrument processing and sterilization, disinfection in the dental office. The variety of new products and materials available in dentistry increases every day. Rather than a discussion of how each of these should be disinfected and sterilized, this lecture focuses on determining what to do by how the items are used in patient care. In addition to the discussion of categorization of patient care items and sterilization techniques, practitioners are guided through a discussion of types of germicidal products. These should be evaluated carefully.
In general, choosing the right germicidal product is important. What you choose in a germicidal agent depends on a number of factors, such as the nature of the contamination (meaning the organic material such as whether it is blood or saliva), the amount of the contamination present, the type of germicide used, and whether it is sporicidal or tuberculocidal. The spray, wipe, spray approach is easy to remember for environmental surfaces. Sterilization and disinfection also extend to other areas, such as the laboratory, the dental unit water lines, evacuation systems, and amalgam separator issues. Use and careful removal of wraps or covers used in the operatory is also highlighted.
Educational Objectives:
Upon completion of this course, participants should be able to achieve the following:
• Discuss the basic principles of sterilization and disinfection, including the importance of cleaning each item before a process is used.
• Highlight methods of sterilization in detail.
• Detail the types of chemical sterilants/disinfectants and appropriate selection for patient care items.
• Highlight key principles for special considerations for disinfection and sterilization issues, such as laboratory items, dental unit water lines, amalgam separators, and evacuation systems.
• Review some of the regulatory compliance issues regarding disinfectants
Note: The fee to view this course is $36. This cost includes the fee to take the exam and claim your CE credits.