FAQ
Only 45% of the dental practices in the United States implement the Infection Coordinator (ICC) role. Below are some important facts about the role & why it's crucial for EVERY dental practice to employ an ICC.
What is an Infection Control Coordinator (ICC)?
According to the CDC, every dental practice should have an Infection Control Coordinator or an ICC. This role is responsible for implementing an infection control program in the dental practice. Their duties consist of scheduling the required annual training, monitoring infection control protocols & ensuring the entire team is adhering to these protocols, as well as maintaining proper recordkeeping to verify the practice is in adherence to the CDC & OSHA infection control guidelines.
What are the attributes of an ICC?
We believe the infection control coordinator will:
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Be a leader
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Be a life-long learner
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Have integrity
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Be resourceful
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Be inspiring
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Have good communication
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Be transparent
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Be humble
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Be ambitious
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Have Accountability
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Be a decision maker
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Be a critical thinker
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Have confidence
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Be detail-oriented
What is an Infection Control & Prevention Program?
According to OSAP, an Infection Control & Prevention Program is "the system of policies, procedures, and practices that minimize the risk of transmission of microorganisms and disease, when properly implemented. The overall goal is patient and personnel safety. Important elements in achieving these include guidelines, standards and regulations; professional standards and best practices; ethics; and standard operating procedures (SOPs)."
What are some duties of an Infection Control Coordinator?
An ICC, has a duty to manage the entire infection control & prevention program. Some of the duties include:​
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implementing & monitoring infection control compliance of standard operating procedures
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providing written documentation to personnel of mandates & guidelines set forth by regulatory agencies
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act as an infection prevention resource for the team
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scheduling infection prevention & safety training
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overseeing the documentation of safety-related recordkeeping
What training should an ICC complete?
Training is essential for an ICC to oversee an Infection Control & Prevention Program. At a minimum, the ICC should have basic knowledge of "microbiology, modes of transmission, infection prevention/safety procedures, & related governmental regulations/recommendations".
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To further this knowledge, we offer comprehensive virtual training for the ICC role. It expands the ICC's current knowledge & guides them with implementing a strong Infection Control & Prevention program that is easily maintained regardless of change in personnel or budget.