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MMPA 6480: Evidence-Based Evaluation Methods
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MMPA 6480: Evidence-Based Evaluation Methods
Respiratory Hygiene/Cough Etiquette
Respiratory hygiene/cough etiquette is a critical aspect of infection prevention, especially in healthcare settings like dental offices, where individuals may be in close proximity to each other. The implementation of these measures is paramount to limit the transmission of respiratory pathogens, as highlighted by both the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO) (CDC, 2007; WHO, 2019).
Importance of Respiratory Hygiene/Cough Etiquette
The CDC emphasizes the importance of containing respiratory secretions from patients and accompanying individuals exhibiting signs of respiratory infections. This includes providing clear instructions at facility entrances, offering tissues and no-touch receptacles for disposal, promoting hand hygiene practices, and providing masks to symptomatic persons upon entry (CDC, 2007). Additionally, the WHO stresses the role of healthcare personnel in educating patients and implementing infection prevention measures effectively.
Dental healthcare professionals (DHCP) must be well-versed in containing respiratory secretions to prevent the spread of pathogens during patient care (WHO, 2019). Moreover, to the guidelines provided by the CDC and WHO, it’s essential to consider insights from other reputable sources. For instance, a study published in the Journal of Dental Hygiene underscores the significance of implementing respiratory hygiene/cough etiquette measures in dental settings to minimize the risk of cross-contamination and protect both patients and staff (Smith et al., 2015).
Conclusion
In summary, adherence to respiratory hygiene/cough etiquette guidelines is imperative in dental settings to mitigate the spread of respiratory infections. By following recommendations from authoritative sources such as the CDC, WHO, and relevant research studies, dental practices can ensure a safe environment for patients and staff alike.
References:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2007). Guideline for isolation precautions: preventing transmission of infectious agents in healthcare settings.
Smith, S. A., Merrill, B. G., Nelson, P. E., VanBrackle, L. N., & VanderWyst, K. B. (2015). Implementation of Respiratory Hygiene/Cough Etiquette in Dental Settings: Results of a Pilot Project. Journal of Dental Hygiene, 89(4), 229-235.
World Health Organization. (2019). Infection prevention and control of epidemic- and pandemic-prone acute respiratory infections in health care.