What must dental hygienists do to comply with infection control standards?

To comply with infection control standards, dental hygienists must follow the guidelines established by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). These guidelines are designed to ensure a consistent and scientifically supported approach to infection control in dental settings.

The CDC provides recommendations that help prevent the transmission of infectious diseases during dental procedures, addressing areas such as hand hygiene, use of personal protective equipment (PPE), sterilization and disinfection of instruments and surfaces, and safe handling of waste. OSHA, on the other hand, sets forth regulations that enforce workplace safety, including exposure to bloodborne pathogens, ensuring that dental hygienists and other healthcare workers have a safe environment in which to practice.

By adhering to these established guidelines, dental hygienists can protect their patients, themselves, and their colleagues from potential infections, thus maintaining a high standard of care in the dental profession. This comprehensive compliance also supports legal and ethical responsibilities in providing dental hygiene services. Other choices do not encompass the full scope of compliance required to maintain safe and effective infection control practices.