Not Again: Another Dental Practice Fails to Meet Infection Control Standards
A Colorado pediatric dental practice faces disciplinary action after an inspection uncovered multiple infection control violations, underscoring the importance of ongoing compliance oversight.
A pediatric dental practice in Pueblo, Colorado, is in hot water after the Colorado Dental Board found numerous violations that put patients at risk. The dentist is on probation for 1 year.
An unplanned visit occurred in August that revealed that the practice was using expired surface disinfection wipes, incorrectly donning personal protective equipment, scheduling biohazard collection only once per year (low-volume practices typically schedule monthly pick-ups), and operating with an expired fire extinguisher.
The dentist must correct all problems within 30 days and pay for another inspection. The dental team will also need to undergo extensive training regarding Occupational Safety and Health Administration compliance. Fortunately, no patients have reported any harm after receiving care at the practice.
Sounds like this practice could use an infection control coordinator (ICC) to ensure compliance is always in order. ICCs help dental practices stay on top of any changes to infection control regulations and help protect the safety of both patients and staff members.1 Click here to read more.
Reference
- Garland KV. Every practice needs an infection control coordinator. Dimensions of Dental Hygiene.
