Do dental hygienists in New Jersey have specific infection control protocols they must follow?

Dental hygienists in New Jersey are required to adhere to established infection control protocols that are guided by both the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines and the specific regulations set forth by the state. This requirement ensures that hygienists maintain high standards of safety and sterility within dental practices, which is crucial for preventing the transmission of infectious diseases among patients and staff.

The CDC provides comprehensive recommendations for preventing infections in healthcare settings, and these guidelines cover various aspects of infection control, including hand hygiene, the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), sterilization of instruments, and environmental cleaning. By following these guidelines, dental hygienists contribute to a safe clinical environment.

State regulations further reinforce these guidelines by tailoring them to the specific legal framework and public health needs of New Jersey. This alignment between federal recommendations and state mandates ensures that patient safety is a priority, and that hygienists are fully equipped with the necessary knowledge and tools to perform their duties effectively.

Such a structured approach to infection control demonstrates the profession's commitment to public health and safety, emphasizing that proper protocols are not only important but mandatory. Consequently, hygienists do not have the freedom to create their own protocols, as adherence to established standards is essential to their practice.