In the dynamic world of dental professionals, staying abreast of the latest infection control standards and guidelines is paramount to ensuring the safety of both staff and patients. This blog post introduces Michelle Strange, a dental hygienist and industry thought leader who has recently unveiled a groundbreaking resource for dental offices – the Infection Control Coordinator Guidebook. Let's delve into Michelle's journey, her passion for oral health, and her mission to elevate infection prevention in the dental industry.
A Conversation with Michelle Strange
Debora Carrier, a long-time friend of Michelle, and owner of Twice as Nice Uniforms had the privilege of interviewing her about her latest endeavor. Michelle, a traveling hygienist currently practicing in Montana, shared her unique journey with Deborah.
The Infection Control Coordinator Guidebook for CDC compliance
The highlight of their conversation was Michelle's new product, the Infection Control Coordinator Guidebook. This comprehensive resource is designed to assist dental offices in establishing robust infection control protocols, recordkeeping, standard operating procedures, and equipment maintenance, with a special focus on safety. It is not an OSHA guidebook but rather a practical manual for the day-to-day infection control practices that are essential for managing patient and team safety.
One of the guidebook's primary objectives is to support the pivotal role of the infection control coordinator (ICC) within dental practices. By doing so, it aligns perfectly with the mission of Level Up Infection Prevention—to elevate the importance of this crucial position. The ICC is the linchpin in the implementation of infection control practices, and this guidebook equips them with the necessary knowledge and resources to excel in their role.
In the context of dental infection control, it's essential to consider the 2003 & 2016 publication by the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) titled "Summary of Infection Basic Expectations for Safe Care." This publication established the formal requirement that every dental practice should create evidence-based written infection control policies and procedures in alignment with regulatory mandates. The guidebook serves as an invaluable resource that helps dental practices align with these guidelines.
One of the key takeaways from the guidebook is the importance of cultivating a culture of safety within dental practice settings. This extends beyond mere compliance with regulations; it involves fostering strong leadership, continuous self-assessment, regular continuing education and training, and ongoing monitoring of compliance. The guidebook provides dental professionals with the tools they need to not only meet regulatory requirements but also to create an environment that prioritizes safety.
Moreover, the guidebook underscores the significance of having a comprehensive understanding of guidelines and regulations, effective leadership, ongoing self-assessment, consistent participation in continuing education and training, and the continuous monitoring of compliance. It is not only a resource for meeting regulatory requirements but also a tool for fostering a culture of safety in dental practice settings.
By incorporating the guidelines and insights outlined in Michelle Strange's Infection Control Coordinator Guidebook, dental offices can take significant strides toward creating a safe and infection-free environment for their teams and patients. Ultimately, this resource empowers dental professionals to fulfill their responsibility for the safety and health of everyone within their practice, elevating the standard of care and reinforcing the vital role of infection control coordinators. With the guidebook as their compass, dental practices can confidently navigate the ever-evolving landscape of infection control, ensuring the well-being of all who walk through their doors.
By utilizing the Infection Control Coordinator Guidebook, dental offices can benefit in several ways.
Firstly, the guidebook equips infection control coordinators with the necessary knowledge and resources to excel in their roles, elevating the importance of this crucial position.
Secondly, it helps dental practices align with the infection control guidelines established by the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Thirdly, the guidebook emphasizes the significance of creating a culture of safety within dental practice settings, going beyond mere compliance with regulations.
Finally, the guidebook empowers dental professionals to fulfill their responsibility for the safety and health of everyone within their practice, elevating the standard of care and reinforcing the vital role of infection control coordinators.
By incorporating the guidelines and insights outlined in Michelle Strange's Infection Control Coordinator Guidebook, dental offices can take significant strides toward creating a safe and infection-free environment for their teams and patients. The guidebook covers a wide range of topics, provides valuable resources, and emphasizes the importance of a culture of safety. It empowers dental professionals to fulfill their responsibility for the safety and health of everyone within their practice, elevating the standard of care and reinforcing the vital role of infection control coordinators. With the guidebook as their compass, dental practices can confidently navigate the ever-evolving landscape of infection control, ensuring the well-being of all who walk through their doors.
For more information, you can visit the Level Up IP website.
References:
1. "Every Practice Needs an Infection Control Coordinator - Dimensions of Dental Hygiene | Magazine"