What are healthcare workers, including dental assistants, at risk for?

Healthcare workers, including dental assistants, are at significant risk for exposure to serious diseases due to the nature of their work. They routinely come into contact with bodily fluids, such as saliva and blood, while providing patient care, which can lead to possible transmission of infectious diseases. These may include bloodborne pathogens like hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), as well as airborne diseases.

Proper infection control protocols, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), sterilization of instruments, and adherence to safety guidelines, are crucial for minimizing these risks. Moreover, ongoing education about potential exposures and how to handle them is essential in the dental and healthcare environment. This focus on exposure to serious diseases highlights the importance of maintaining a safe working environment to protect both healthcare workers and patients.