by Olivia Wann

Quite a number of support calls and cases have come through with the problem of RDAs and RDHs licenses lapsed. This results in fines and penalties for both the RDA, RDH, and the owner/dentist.

by Olivia Wann

Are you aware the FBI warned of search engine ads when you search for your bank online? 

When you search for your bank online, a search engine advertisement may pop up to promote websites distributing ransomware or stealing login credentials.  

by Olivia Wann

I have personally been a fan of the Hufriedy IMS cassette system for many years. Why? Number one, the cassette system promotes safety. By handling the contaminated instruments less, the assistants and hygienists are less likely to have a sharps injury.  If we can minimize the risk of an exposure incident, we have accomplished two things: 1) employees feel safer, and 2) we minimized the added costs of post exposure management.

I also how it saves time and promotes organization. Up to an hour a day is saved and we all can use more time in our day!

Another plus is the fact that the instruments will last longer by reducing the amount of abrasive contact during transport and pre-cleaning in the ultrasonic cleaner. Once again, this puts dollars back in the practice’s budget.

by Olivia Wann

Have you wondered why people are leaving their jobs? According to iHire’s 2022 Talent Retention Report, the top 5 reasons people left jobs in the last 12 months are:

• Unhappy with their manager/supervisor  43.7%
• Unsatisfactory pay/salary  43.4%
• Poor work/life balance 35.4%
• Lack of recognition/appreciation 29.7%
• Few growth/advancement opportunities 28.3%

In a dental or medical office, obviously compensation can peak in line with industry averages for the required position; however, can we explore ways to increase satisfaction with compensation such as an additional paid day off, participation in a bonus, payment of a portion of health insurance coverage or other ideas? 

Most dental offices only work 4 days a week allowing better work/life balance. However, in evaluating a lack of recognition or appreciation, can we consider making the effort to engage everyone during morning huddles and team meetings? Perhaps interview team members during the meeting to share their perspective on practice growth, patient satisfaction, and goals for the new year. Everyone wants and needs to be heard.

We are excited to offer the program: From Acceptable to Exceptional: How to raise your team’s performance and keep them engaged. If you have any questions in regards to courses offered in the coming year, email olivia@oliviawann.com.

by Olivia Wann

Depends. Check with the manufacturer because the information may vary among brands. 

According to CDC, all items to be sterilized should be arranged so all surfaces will be directly exposed to the sterilizing agent.  Loading procedures must allow for free circulation of steam around each item.   

Wrapped cassettes should be spaced apart and single height loaded. They should not be touching each other.    

Peel pouches should be placed on its edge in racks according to Midmark. 

Check with the manufacturer to determine whether cassettes or pouches should be sterilized in a horizontal position such as the Tuttnauer EZ9Plus or a vertical position as in the Tuttnauer EZ11. Tuttnauer also indicates to place paper/plastic pouches with the plastic side up.   

More info here: https://www.cdc.gov/infectioncontrol/guidelines/disinfection/sterilization/sterilizing-practices.html

Watch the Midmark video here. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vPIXM9OBQfI

Don’t forget to place a chemical indicator inside of cassettes and use autoclave tape on the outside.  Also, date the pouches and cassettes with the sterilization date and indicate which sterilizer was used. 

by Gracie Hogue

Not sure what the term “Human Firewall” means? A lot of people don’t. But as the idea and practice of a human firewall gains more and more recognition and effectiveness, now is a great time to implement this in your practice.