Idaho Admin. Code r. 24.31.01.031 - INFECTION CONTROL

In determining what constitutes unacceptable patient care with respect to infection control, the Board may consider current infection control guidelines such as those of the CDC. Additionally, licensees and dental assistants must comply with the following requirements: (3-28-23)

01. Gloves, Masks, and Eyewear. Disposable gloves must be worn whenever placing fingers into the mouth of a patient or when handling blood or saliva contaminated instruments or equipment. Appropriate hand hygiene must be performed prior to gloving. Masks and protective eyewear or chin-length shields must be worn when spattering of blood or other body fluids is likely. (3-28-23)

02. Instrument Sterilization. Between each patient use, instruments and other equipment that come in contact with body fluids must be sterilized. (3-28-23)

03. Sterilizing Devices Testing. Heat sterilizing devices must be tested for proper function by means of a biological monitoring system that indicates micro-organisms kill. Devices must be tested each calendar week in which scheduled patients are treated. Testing results must be retained by the licensee for the current calendar year and the two (2) preceding calendar years. (3-28-23)

04. Non-Critical Surfaces. Environmental surfaces that are contaminated by blood or saliva must be disinfected with an EPA registered hospital disinfectant. (3-28-23)

05. Clinical Contact Surfaces. Impervious backed paper, aluminum foil, or plastic wrap should be used to cover surfaces that may be contaminated by blood or saliva. The cover must be replaced between patients. If barriers are not used, surfaces must be cleaned and disinfected between patients by using an EPA registered hospital disinfectant. (3-28-23)

06. Disposal. All contaminated wastes and sharps must be disposed of according to any governmental requirements. (3-28-23)

Notes

Idaho Admin. Code r. 24.31.01.031