When you find out you need a root canal, your first thought may be to think of all that goes into one of these procedures. Many people feel overwhelmed by the procedure. This is something our practice understands which is why we do everything we can to make this as easy and painless of a process as we can for you. One of the ways that we do this is with the universal precautions used. There are a few things you should understand about these.
Why are Universal Precautions Needed?
Most people do not understand the need for precautions. The truth is that these are universal precautions that means whether you go to the lowest or highest rated office for endodontics Houston has to offer, you will find the same precautions being used.
The reason these precautions are used is an effort to stop the spread of blood borne illnesses. This includes things such as hepatitis, AIDS and HIV and more within a healthcare setting. Even if you do not have one of these conditions, it is helpful to know that the same precautions are being taken with every patient to ensure that no one ends up infected while in the office.
How is This Done?
There are several methods that the office will use in order to keep themselves and patients safe with universal precautions.
To start with there are certain engineering and work control practices that are put into place. These ensure that the basic run of the office is conducive to safety. There is also the need for proper protection, including the use of personal protective equipment such as gloves and appropriate barrier techniques applied. This also gets into the need for proper blood borne pathogen exposure control. Some of the precautions that are taken with this include properly disposing of needles and other sharps, hazard communications and similar techniques.
Altogether these practices may seem like a waste of time, but they really do ensure the safety of everyone in the office. It may add a couple extra minutes to the time you are in the office but it is definitely worth it.