DENTAL ASSISTANT ONLINE EXAM PRACTICE KIT 6
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Foods that promote caries are known as which of the following?
Cariogenic foods are those which promote bacterial growth and thus promote caries. Sticky, starchy foods, sugary foods, and sugary liquids are all cariogenic
Humans have how many deciduous teeth?
Deciduous teeth, or milk teeth, are not permanent. These teeth, of which humans have 20, appear in early childhood and are lost at a relatively early age as well. They are replaced by the permanent teeth.
Which of the following will NOT increase strep mutans activity
Strep mutans is the collective name for the bacteria that causes dental carries. Eating raw vegetables will not increase the bacteria. The other answers contribute to strep mutans and tooth decay.
Which of the following instruments would you choose to remove calculus from around a tooth?
The periodontal hoe is used to remove calculus from around a tooth. It may be used on both supra- and subgingival calculus.
When applying topical fluoride gel via mouth tray, which of the following should be placed first?
The mandibular tray should be placed first. Then place the saliva extractor, followed by the maxillary tray. An aspirator is not used in topical fluoride application.
During the seating of a cast metal crown procedure, if the crown drops to the back of the patient’s throat, the first thing you should do is:
Which of the following is NOT one of the branches of the carotid artery which supplies blood to the oral cavity?
Three branches of the carotid artery provide blood supply to the oral cavity. These are the facial, maxillary, and ligual branches.
Oral precancerous and neoplastic lesions are linked to excessive intake of _____.
Alcohol can affect dental health. Besides the stains and erosion that wine can cause, too much alcohol is linked to oral precancerous and neoplastic lesions. Patients should be cautioned about the risks of drinking too much.
Which of the following is the SMALLEST size of inverted cone bur?
Inverted cone burs are used to remove caries and to make undercuts in preparation for retention. They come in a variety of sizes and may have long or short heads. The smallest size is 33 ½ and the largest is 39.
All but which of the following should be arranged along the TOP of an amalgam instrument tray?
The amalgam carrier should be at the bottom of the amalgam tray. The top of the tray should include the burs in the bur block, the matrix band retainer and wedges, the amalgam well, the amalgam capsules, cotton rolls, gauze sponges, and floss.
When educating a patient about toothbrushing, how long should you instruct the patient to brush?
Patient should be instructed to brush for two minutes at each brushing. They should be instructed to brush twice a day. Two, 2- minute brushings are considered more effective than more frequent but briefing brushings.
The recommended oxygen system for the dental office is:
The recommended oxygen system for the dental office is a Series E portable oxygen tank with a low-flow regulator. The system should also have a positive pressure mask.
How are glass ionomer cements usually applied to the tooth surface?
Glass ionomer cements are commonly applied directly to unconditioned enamel and dentine. Glass ionomers cements chemically bond with the teeth. They first dissolve some of the hydroxyapatite (tooth matrix). The salts in the glass ionomer cements then combine with the hydroxyapatite to make the cement adhere to the tooth.
Topical fluoride application via mouth tray typically takes about which length of time?
Topical fluoride gel, applied via mouth tray, takes about 4 minutes. Prolonged exposure to fluoride can actually cause cosmetic damage to teeth.
The most important law governing infection control in dentistry today is
The Bloodborne Pathogens Standard limits occupational exposure to blood and other potentially infectious materials. This exposure could result in the transmission of bloodborne pathogens which could lead to disease or death.
The material used for filling a root canal is known as which of the following?
Made of the resin of several trees, gutta percha is used to fill root canals. It comes in different lengths and is cut with a heated instrument.
Which material is used for temporary fillings?
Self-curing acrylics are used for temporary restorations. Zinc oxide-eugenol may also be used for temporary fillings.
Prime appointment times for scheduling patients are:
The first and last appointments of the day are the prime appointment times. Many working patients or parents prefer early morning or late afternoon appointments so as not to interfere with their jobs or school.
Which of the following is NOT true of the high-speed dental handpiece?
The high-speed dental handpiece is used to rapidly cut teeth. It may also be used to smooth, structure, and finish restorations. It is controlled via a rheostat, or foot control.
How many cusps would you expect to find on the crown of the first lower molar in a set of permanent teeth?
In a normal human jaw, the first lower molar will have five cusps, or tubercles. The first upper molar will have four.
Hoes are used with which of the following types of motion?
Hoes are shanked instruments used to smooth and shape the floor of a cavity preparation. They are used with a pulling motion.
All but which of the following can be used to remove excess restorative material?
The Tanner carver is used to carve and shape the occlusional anatomy of an amalgam restoration. It is not used to remove excess restorative material.
The cavity found in the interior of the crown and root of each tooth is known as which of the following?
The interior cavity of each tooth is known as the pulp cavity. This space is filled with dental pulp, a loose connective tissue rich in vessels and nerves.
For which of the following procedures would you choose a jacquette?
The jacquette is used to remove supragingival calculus. It is double ended, with a cutting edge on both sides of the straight blades.
Most prolonged or recurrent epileptic seizures can be managed through the use of:
Most prolonged or recurrent epileptic seizures can be managed through the use of midazolam. It is the drug of choice for epileptic seizures and can be administered intramuscularly.
When setting up a treatment room, all instruments should be within which radius distance of the assistant?
In four-handed dentistry, motion is ideally limited. Placing the instruments within a 21 inch radius of the assistant allows for the best economy of motion.
Which of the following instruments would you choose to cleanse the canal during root canal procedure?
The Luer syringe is used to cleanse and debride the canal during root canal procedures. It is sometimes known as the endontic irrigation syringe.
The T-ball burnisher can be used to do all but which of the following
The T-ball burnisher can be used to slightly separate teeth, to shape matrix bands, and to smooth the rough edges of an amalgam. A beavertail burnisher is used to tuck the dental dam into place.
The Lentulo spiral is used for which of the following?
The Lenuto spiral is a long, twisted, very flexible wire instrument. It is used to evenly distribute gutta percha or cement in the canal.
Which of the following is the LARGEST size of end cutting bur
End cutting burs are used to form the shoulders of crown preparations. This instrument comes in two sizes: 957 and 958
A condition exhibiting symptoms of itching and hives is known as:
Itching and hives can be signs of an allergic reaction. This can quickly lead to breathing problems. Dental staff should pay special attention to patients exhibiting these symptoms
Prime appointment times for scheduling patients are:
The first and last appointments of the day are the prime appointment times. Many working patients or parents prefer early morning or late afternoon appointments so as not to interfere with their jobs or school.
Which of the following is used if a patient suffers from syncope?
There is no need to administer drugs to a patient who faints. You may administer oxygen. Spirits of ammonia are useful if a patient does not revive quickly.
A patient who lives in an area with unfluoridated drinking water would be advised to do which of the following when using a brush-on gel?
Patients who use a brush-on gel and who live in areas where the water is not fluoridated should be instructed not to rinse after applying the gel at home. Any gel that is swallowed will provide extra dietary fluoride. Patients who do have fluoridated drinking water should be instructed not to swallow the gel.
Which of the following is the principle role of a cavity liner?
The pulp can be irritated by both cavities and the restoration process. A cavity liner protects the pulp and helps it recover.
For which of the following would you use Endo Ice?
Tooth sensitivity can be tested with heat or cold. Endo Ice is one product used to test via cold.
Diagnostic casts are used for which of the following?
Diagnostic casts are used in fabricating orthodontic appliances. Diagnostic casts include an anatomical portion, which records the hard and soft tissues.
Which of the following instruments would you choose when a square shoulder is needed for a crown preparation?
Diamond bur flat-end taper Diamond burs are used to rapidly reduce teeth for preparations. If a square shoulder is needed for a crown preparation, a diamond bur flat-end taper is the appropriate choice.
After amalgam has been placed in a cavity, what should be done with any remaining amalgam material?
Amalgam is not useable if it hardens in the carrier. Due to the metals in amalgam, it should not be flushed down the sink or disposed of in regular trash.
Which of the following is NOT true of fluoride in food
Many foods naturally contain fluoride. Foods prepared with fluoridated water may contain additional fluoride. Shellfish and fish contain fluoride as well, as oceans and lakes naturally contain fluoride.
Of the following, which of these is NOT associated with good patient relations?
Good patient relations is an important part of running a successful dentist practice. In addition to empathy, understanding and warmth, concern for each patient is a crucial part of good patient relations.
Needle holders differ from hemostats in which of the following ways?
Needle holders look very much like hemostats. However, they have shorter beaks than do hemostats, as well as having only one groove down the center of each beak.
Which type of wax, also called casting wax, would you immerse in water to soften?
Inlay wax is also called casting wax. It is used for crowns, inlays, and partial dentures. The wax is brittle and is molded using dry heat or immersion in warm water.
Of the following actions, which is not a negligent act?
Failure to give a treatment plan is not a negligent action. A dental professional is obligated to diagnose, to refer a patient to a needed specialist, and to sterilize all instrumentation.
You are preparing an instrument tray for a routine tooth extraction. Which of the following is NOT a standard part of this set up?
Broaches are not standard for tooth extractions. They are used in root canals. The operator will let you know if instruments in addition to the standard extraction tray, which includes forceps holding air, instrument forceps, periosteal and root elevators, and gauze sponges, are needed.
A hinged device used to hold the patient’s mouth open during treatment is known as which of the following?
Mouth gags are hinged devices with ratchet release. They are used to prevent the patient’s mouth from closing during treatment.
Which of the following instruments is used to remove decay before restoring a cavity?
The excavator is used to remove decay before preparing the tooth for restoration. Some dental professionals may also use burs in this process.
For which of the following procedures would you choose a finishing bur?
Finishing burs can be used to smooth, trim, and finish metal restorations. They may also be used on natural tooth colored material restorations.
The double ended instrument which has a condenser on one end and a blade on the other, and which is used to pass materials during cavity preparation, is known as which of the following?
The Woodson carver is a double-ended instrument, with a blade on one end and a condenser on the other. It is used to pass and place dental materials during restoration. It may also be used to place temporary restorative materials into a cavity.
The four front teeth in each dental arch are known as which of the following?
The incisors comprise the first four teeth of each dental arch, with eight total in a normal jaw. The incisors are so named for their ability to cut, and are integral in chewing.
Collimators reduce the amount of
Collimators reduce radiation as well as direct it into a specific area. Non-collimated machines may expose the patient to scatter radiation, and cause more exposure then is necessary.
KVp setting below what range is not recommended due to increased patient exposure risks?
Lower levels of kVp has a lower rate of penetration, which can take more radiation to penetrate the tissue being x-rayed. Lower kVp also causes less contrast on the final image, which can result in procedure retakes, causing unnecessary exposure to the patient. KVp below 60 is the threshold for contrast/exposure levels.
What factor can clinicians use to determine whether operators should wear a dosimeter badge?
Dental clinicians can decide whether operators should be wear dosimeter badges based on the level of clinical exposure. This decision is usually not based on the brand of equipment, expertise of the operators, or type of processing (automatic or manual) used in the clinic.
Who is responsible for radiation equipment in the dental office?
The dentist is the legal registrant of the radiograph equipment in the clinic. As such, the dentist is responsible for all x-ray equipment. This responsibility includes inspections, maintenance, and repairs.
radiograph that is completely black was most likely ____.
Film should be protected from light. Exposure to light will leave the radiograph completely black. Underexposure will leave the picture faint.
Distortion of the viewbox can be caused by all of the following EXCEPT for
Malfunctioning or poorly maintained radiograph viewboxes can cause distorted images. Some common causes of distortion include the wrong type of bulb, dirt on the Plexiglas, and damaged Plexiglas. Viewboxes do not have rollers.
The units of information in chromosomes that determine an organism’s characteristics are called:
The units of information that determine an organism’s characteristics are genes. The genetic material is located in the chromosomes, which are located in the nucleus of a cell.
Aids used in mounting X-rays are called:
Aids used in mounting X-rays are called anatomical landmarks. Mesial or distal anatomical landmarks are used to distinguish right from left on the radiograph.
The rollers in automatic processors should be cleaned weekly for:
Automatic processor rollers should be cleaned weekly for 10-15 minutes. After washing, the rollers should be thoroughly dried before reinstalling them into the processor.
When a patient’s finger appears on a radiograph because it is positioned in front of the receptor instead of behind it, _____ has occurred.
Film bending appears as a stretched and distorted image, while film creasing manifests as a thin radiolucent line on the image. A radiograph affected by phalangioma shows the patient’s finger, as it was improperly positioned in front of the receptor. Movement while a radiograph is being taken shows up as a blurred image.
The goal of dental radiography is to acquire information for diagnostic purpose while at the same time keeping the patient and staff radiation exposure to a minimum. This goal is often expressed as which acronym?
The primary goal of dental radiography is to acquire diagnostic information while minimizing exposure of patients and staff. This concept is represented by the acronym ALARA. The term ALARA stands for As Low As Reasonably
Achievable.
The ingredient in the fixer solution that shrinks the gelatin component of the film is called the:
The ingredient in the fixer solution that shrinks the gelatin component of the film is the hardener. This ingredient also hardens the gelatin.
Which view would you use to show the buccolingual relationship?
The occlusal view shows the teeth in occlusion. This is the best view to show the buccolingual relationship
Which of the following measures can help protect patients from excess radiation damage to their tissues?
Although higher kVp levels can have an increased risk of scatter radiation, it also increases penetration of the x-ray beam and delivers an image faster. Also, higher kVp level have less interaction with the cells photons that are being exposed, which decreases the chance of radiation damage.
The lower the dose of radiation exposure,
The less radiation a patient receives, the less likely they are to have biological damage done. ALARA should always be followed, and all precautions should be taken to protect the patient.
Which of the following will NOT place the patient at a higher risk for caries?
A healthy diet that is high in fruits and vegetables is less likely to cause caries. The other answers place the patient at a high risk of caries. Radiographs are necessary for high risk patients.
One of the upper molars on the patient’s left side has (a) ____
In viewing the x-ray, it is apparent that one of the upper molars has a filling. Also noticeable is that the wisdom teeth are impacted and the lower right wisdom tooth is leaning toward the lower right 2nd molar, therefore causing a large cavity to result.
Using film that has been exposed to heat or chemical fumes will result in
Using film that has been exposed to heat or chemical fumes will result in a fogged film image. Other causes of fogged film include using contaminated developer and exposure to light during storage.
Intensifying screens:
Magnification of the X-ray beam is accomplished by the intensifying screens. By magnifying the X-ray beam, exposure time is reduced.
If the dot is on the right of the resulting radiograph, which side of the patient was the image captured?
The radiographic operator should always use the proper convention for orienting the dot as it will aid in interpreting films later. The dot is always facing the tube. So, if on the resulting film the dot is on the right of the film, then the image was taken on the patient’s right.
Before reinstalling into the automatic processor, rollers should be
It is important that the rollers in automatic processors be rinsed thoroughly. This will help to prevent contamination that can affect the quality of the radiographic image
When taking a panoramic X-ray of an obese patient compared to a thin patient, exposure should be:
When taking a panoramic X-ray of an obese patient compared to a thin patient, increased exposure should be administered. It is increased because the image may be blurry as a result of the fat tissues that shield the organs from the X-rays.
X-ray machine inspections should be performed by:
X-ray machine inspections should be performed by a state agency representative. Also, individual state regulations should be consulted regarding specific inspection intervals. These inspections should take place upon installation of the equipment and every 4 years thereafter.
If a radiation operator becomes pregnant, she can submit a Declaration of Pregnancy in order to do what?
A Declaration of Pregnancy is a form an employee can submit once she discovers she is pregnant. It alerts the facility that she is pregnant and then requires her to reduce the amount of radiation she is exposed to while at work.
The kilovoltage setting controls the:
The kilovoltage setting controls the current in the anode of the X-ray tube. The anode is the positively charged end of the X-ray tube.
X-rays should be mounted as if the:
X-rays should be mounted as if the operator was standing in front of the patient. X-rays should be mounted from the facial aspect of the patient. From this aspect the operator would be looking from the outside in.
The correct vertical angulation used when taking a bitewing radiograph is:
The correct vertical angulation for a bitewing radiograph is plus 10 degrees. This angulation setting produces minimal distortion and opens the contacts between the teeth.
Of the following, which does this dental x-ray show?
The dental x-ray image is a full mouth panoramic view. It shows the teeth of a patient with root canals and several fillings.
Patient effective dose for panoramic x-rays is
The patient effective dose for panoramic x-rays is 1.1. This value is almost 3 times the dose for a single bitewing. However, it is less than the dose for bite-wings of the full mouth.
A difference in the processing steps between manual processing and automatic processing is:
A difference in between manual and automatic processors is that automatic processors do not require rinsing in between the developing and fixing stage. The chemicals are also different for the two types of processing.
When taking panoramic x-rays, the operator can select the proper exposure setting by determining the patient’s bone density. One method to determine bone density is to look at the patient’s:
The bone density is a factor in selecting the proper exposure setting for panoramic x-rays. However, a patient’s bone density cannot be determined just by looking at the patient’s size. An appropriate guide to base bone density is to look at the patient’s ankles or wrists. Usually the thicker the ankle or wrist, the heavier the bone density.
When preparing to mount film, what is the proper way to physically handle a dental radiograph image?
Dental film is very delicate, so care must always be taken to avoid marks or scratches made from damp or sweaty fingers. When handling these films, hand should always be clean and dry; the film should be gripped/handled only on the edge to avoid ruining or defacing the image(s).
What stabilizes film for an intraoral radiograph without using a holder.
Holders prevent patients from having to hold the film in their mouths. Bitewing tabs have film inside board or paper. This holds the film straight and eliminates the need for a holder.
Which of the following marks the difference between right and left when loading the film packet?
All of the answers except B are parts of the film packet. A dot is embossed on the corner of film packets. This helps distinguish the right an left side when loading the film.
The process in which the developer solution removes bromides from the metallic silver of the film is called:
Reduction is the process whereby bromides from the metallic silver of the film are removed. Film reversal occurs when the film has been placed in the X-ray machine incorrectly. Reticulation occurs when X-ray images appear cracked.
A bite rod is bent too far forward. What will most likely occur to the image?
Positioning problems with the bite rod result in blurred anterior teeth. If the bite rod is bent forward, the patient will be out of position.
Besides exposure, what can cause a film to be pale and have dark spots?
A short exposure time can cause a film to be pale. A pale exposure, however, can also be the result of a worn screen. A reversed screen will also create a pale image.
In standard mounting, which way should the raised dot be positioned for BITEWING radiographs?
To capture radiographs correctly, they must be mounted correctly. As a point of reference, radiographic film has a raised dot. For bitewing x-rays, the raised dot should be oriented upward in standard mounting.
What happens to chemicals stored in an extremely cold environment?
Storing chemicals in an environment that is too cold deactivates their effectiveness. Store chemicals according to directions. This will keep them active and effective.
An operator should
An operator should never put themselves in harm’s way. The film should be placed firmly before the x-ray is taken. The operator should be behind a barrier before an x-ray is started.
Blurred images are seen on the radiograph with ____
Film bending appears as a stretched and distorted image, while film creasing manifests as a thin radiolucent line on the image. A radiograph affected by phalangioma shows the patient’s finger, as it was improperly positioned in front of the receptor. Movement while a radiograph is being taken shows up as a blurred image.
Which of the following body tissues absorbs the greatest amount of x-radiation when exposed?
Of the tissues listed, bone tissues absorb the greatest amount of radiation when exposed. Bone tissue surrounding the outer layer of the bone absorb the greatest amount of radiation and transfer it to the marrow inside. Because the radiation can effect the bone as well as bone marrow, bone tissues generally have the most adverse effects after exposure.
Anna is a new assistant and recently lost her dosimeter. She should first:
Lost or damaged dosimeters should be reported to the employer as soon as possible. These devices are an important safety tool. The employee should not share a device or forego monitoring her exposure.
This panoral radiograph is an image of which of the following?
The image shows fully erupted teeth as well as those within the jaw that have not erupted. The teeth that have not erupted are not impacted, they are simply developing, permanent teeth.
The component in the X-ray tubehead that aims and shapes the X-ray is:
The component in the X-ray tubehead that aims and shapes the X-ray is the position indicator device. It is also known as the cone.
A 55 year old patient who has no teeth is requiring x-rays. The panoramic exposure setting on the x-ray machine should be:
The patient who has no teeth is edentulous. Therefore, the kVp setting should be adjusted to the next lowest setting.
Adequate shielding or barrier protection should be:
Adequate shielding or barrier protection should be thick enough to protect dental personnel. Protection should be a suitable density to attenuate the radiation. Attenuate in this context means to reduce the strength of the radiation.
Radiation exposure can cause which blood disease?
Radiation exposure can cause leukemia, which is a disease affecting the white blood cells. Leukemia is cancer of the early stages of the blood production. The other answer choices are also blood diseases, but they are not caused by exposure to radiation.
The sinus structures are visible in an intraoral radiograph. What is the likely cause?
Vertical angulation is important to the quality of the image. Poor vertical angulation may show the sinus structures. It is also responsible for elongation and shortened images.
The dental assisant is using a chemical that has the preceding symbol displayed on the container, What does the symbol mean?
The National Fire Protection Association has developed a color-coded system that’s used to describe flammability, health, reactivity and special hazards associated with chemicals. “Special hazards” includes symbols for “radioactive”, “poison”, “oxidizing agent” and “water reactive”. “Poison” is represented by a skull and cross bones.
Packaging instruments for storage requires which of the following?
Sterilization packaging is FDA approved. The other answers should not be used. They will interfere with the sterilization process.
When comparing the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), the Centers for Disease Control:
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration is a regulatory agency, which can mandate and enforce practices. In contrast, the Centers for Disease Control only recommends practices. Neither agency licenses professionals.
What is the term for infection control?
Asepsis is infection control. Aseptic conditions are used to prevent the transmission of illness.
How long does it take for microbes to line the tubes of the water line?
Microbes begin to cling within minutes of exposure. Within weeks, biofilm will line the tubes of the water lines
Which of the following is NOT biohazardous medical waste generally associated with dentistry?
Cultures and stocks are biohazardous medical waste that are produced during the diagnosis, treatment or immunization of animals and humans. Although common, it is generally not noted in dentistry environments.
What is the shelf life for sterilized and packaged instruments?
Although there is generally a quick turnaround time with regard to the use of sterilized and packaged instruments in most dental offices, the actual shelf life these items may be indefinite. This depends on factors such as the packaging material not being compromised in terms of it not being torn or contaminated.
A primary function of the skin includes:
The skin is an organ, which serves several vital functions. It acts as a permeable barrier to the environment, prevents water loss, synthesizes Vitamin D from sunlight, and protects internal organs from abrasion and microorganisms.
What extra precaution should be used with implantable devices?
A spore test or biologic monitor is necessary to determine if the sterilization is effective. The biologic indicator needs to be used with implantable devices. The devices should not be used if the test is positive.
Are dental anesthetic carpules considered sharps and must they be disposed of in the sharps container?
Dental facilities must follow 29 CFR 1910.1030(d)(4)(iii)(A) with regard to the disposal of contaminated carpules. Dentists are never allowed to choose the method in which contaminated carpules are allowed to be disposed of.
Someone who has a compromised immune system is known as:
A susceptible host is an individual with a compromised immune system. This means that the individual has a disease already, is currently undergoing treatment for a condition, has not been getting enough rest, and is run down or under stress. These things can suppress a person’s immune system and cause him to be more susceptible to an illness or disease.
Which of the following is more likely to be disposable?
Protective clothing needs to be washed or disposed of by management. There are disposable gowns. They are more likely to be found than disposable uniforms or lab coats.
Proper maintenance of nitrous oxide equipment should include all of the following except for:
Using an oil-based soap to check for leaks in bubbles in high pressure connectors Nitrous oxide equipment should not be checked with an oil-based soap. A non-oil based soap or an infrared gas analyzer should be used to check high pressure connectors.
What is included in low level disinfectant?
Quaternary ammonium compounds are included in low level disinfectants. The other answer choices are found in high level disinfectants.
What type of pathogen poses the greatest risk of transmission for dental care professionals?
Bloodborne pathogens can pose the greatest risk for DHCP since they frequently encounter patient blood and/or blood contaminated body fluids, such as saliva during various dental procedures. For this reason, it is important that employees are up to date on current vaccinations and wear personal protective equipment at all times.
Which materials should be particularly free from latex in the dental clinic?
Dental clinics should manage latex allergies and consider both patients and workers. Emergency kits should be latex free.
Gloves should be worn:
Gloves should be worn by dental professionals for all dental treatments or procedures, routine or surgical. As a routine course of action, the dental professional should don gloves when working with patients
A low level EPA-registered hospital disinfectant will decontaminate surfaces against:
Low level EPA-registered hospital disinfectants with label claims may be used for decontaminating surfaces against HIV and Hepatitis B Virus. Low level disinfectants are ineffective against spores, fungi, and mycobacterium.
What does number “Ox” in the white section of the chemical hazard label represent?
The National Fire Protection Association has created a color coded system that describes particular chemicals being used. The system explains the flammability, reactivity and health hazards associated with the chemical, as well as any special hazards. Red = Flammability. Yellow = Reactivity. Blue= Health. White = Special hazards (e.g. water reactive or oxidizing agent). The degree of each hazard is noted with a number 0-4. 0 = Minimal. 1 = Slight. 2 = Moderate. 3 = Serious. 4 = Extreme.
How long should the hand piece run on the bur before it is cleaned and sterilized?
The debris on a hand piece needs to be removed before it is cleaned and sterilized. The hand piece should run on the bur for 20 to 30 seconds. The correct answer is 20 seconds.
What should be done when the fill line of a sharps container is reached?
Each sharps container has a fill line. Once this line is reached, the container is capped. Capping the container should be done before the being disposed of appropriately.
What occurs if there is insufficient cleaning of items before they are sterilized?
Protein and salt will cling to the items that are not cleaned properly. The sterilization process will not remove this. A salt and protein barrier will prevent the sterilization of equipment.
The main requirement of the OSHA Hazard Communication Standard is that:
Compliance with the Standard is the main requirement of OSHA’s Hazard Communication Standard. To this end, a program must be developed to instruct all individuals to make a listing of all hazardous chemicals in the office, obtain and file Material Safety Data Sheets, and label all chemicals properly.
As per OSHA’s Bloodborne Pathogen Standard Revision, how long should training records be kept in an active and open file?
| Not only must training records be kept on file for 3 years from the date of training, but they must include specific information. For example, a summary of the training content and date the training took place, are crucial. |
When should the items NOT be considered contaminated?
| Items are considered to be uncontaminated after they are sterilized. They are contaminated throughout the process. They are also uncontaminated after a high disinfection cycle with a washer/ disinfector. |
Which of the following statements is true with regard to the storage of sterilized instruments?
According to CDC, the central processing area should be divided into sections for 1) receiving, cleaning, and decontamination; 2) preparation and packaging; 3) sterilization; and 4) storage. If possible, walls or partitions should separate the sections to help with the control of traffic flow as well as minimize the spread of contamination.
The X-ray film holder is an example of a:
An X-ray holder is a semi-critical instrument that is found in the dental office. Semi-critical instruments may contact mucous membranes but do not penetrate soft tissue. Critical instruments penetrate mucous membranes or contact bone, the bloodstream, or other normally sterile tissues of the mouth. Non-critical instruments are those that pose the least risk of spreading infection because they don’t come in contact with soft tissue, membranes, or broken skin.
How long is a disinfectant left on the surface after it is cleaned?
Disinfectant needs to be given time to work. This typically requires 10 minutes. Manufacturer’s instructions need to be followed
Besides plastic, what is a useful barrier for light switches?
Plastic film can both be manipulated around small areas. These include switches and handles. Foil is also able to be manipulated.
| When assessing the risk for infection in dentistry, a risk assessment should be performed. Which of the following would be the first step in the process? |
When assessing risk for infection, a five stage process should be followed. These are: Stage 1 – “Look for the hazards.” Stage 2 – “Identify who is at risk.” Stage 3 – “Determine the level of risk.” Stage 4 – “Record what you find.” Stage 5 – “Review your assessment.”
What is a universal sign for “choking”?
Patient grabbing at the throat is clearly understood that the patient is having difficulty breathing. This is where knowing the Heimlich maneuver would be most helpful.
Nitrous oxide has been spilled in the dental office. Which of the following should NOT be done in order to clean the spill?
Nitrous oxide is a dangerous, combustible gas. In addition to Choices B, C and D, the area affected by the spill should be isolated until the gas has dispersed.
What should the temperature be for flash steam sterilization?
Flash steam is used in an emergency. It requires a higher temperature than an autoclave sterilization. The temperature needs to be 270 F.
Gloves need to be ____ after answering the phone
Gloves should be removed before touching anything such as the phone. Gloves are reapplied afterwards. Hands should be washed after handling the phone.
Using a petroleum based product immediately before putting on exam gloves will cause which of the following to gloves?
Petroleum will breakdown latex or vinyl gloves. This reduces the level of protection. The gloves become more likely to tear or rip
If while performing a dental procedure a patient has an allergic reaction, which of the following drugs would MOST likely be used?
A patient needs to be draped in a lead apron that protects the ____ from radiation.
Patients need their thyroids protected from radiation. A thyroid collar is used with the lead apron to offer the necessary protection from radiation exposure.
When mixing and pouring chemicals in the sterilization area, dental personnel should wear:
Dental personnel should wear protective eyewear when working with chemicals. The eyewear protects the eyes in the even of a spill or splatter. They should be disinfected after use.
What would you soak instruments that are stained by blood in before sterilizing them?
| All instruments need to be soaked before they can be sterilized. Enzymatic cleaners are used to remove blood or protein material. This allows the sterilization to be effective. |
Mary is preparing for her training session about bloodborne pathogens for the new employees. What information does she need to emphasize to them?
Bloodborne pathogens pose the greatest risk to dental worker since they are exposed to blood and other body fluids. New and veteran employees should be educated about the many bloodborne pathogens they could be at risk for, especially their modes of transmission. Knowing how pathogens are transmitted allows the employee to take precautions ahead of time and reduce the risk of future complications.
How long does it take for microbes from the water supply to cling to tubes?
Water from the city supply contains microbes. These microbes will quickly cling to tubes. The process only takes hours.
Patients and health care workers should be protected against Hepatitis A. What type of disease is Hepatitis A?
Hepatitis A is typically transmitted through unsafe water and food. It is highly infectious and can be transmitted via direct contact from person to person. Improving the conditions of the food and water as well as vaccination can help prevent the spread of the disease.
How long does it take to disinfect with chlorine dioxide?
Chlorine dioxide begins to disinfect immediately. It typically takes 6 to 10 hours for chlorine dioxide to sterilize items or surfaces.
Before caring for a patient, the dental assistant washed her hands for 10 seconds. Is 10 seconds the minimal amount of time for handwashing that should be followed? If not, what is?
It is acceptable for a dental assistant to wash her hands for a longer period, but the minimum time to be observed in order to prevent the transfer of organisms, is 15 seconds. Proper handwashing should be done before and after the care of patients.
According to OSHA regulations, keeping workspaces sanitary and storerooms in the dental office orderly is the responsibility of:
According to OSHA regulations, keeping workspaces sanitary and storerooms in the dental office orderly is the responsibility of the dentist. OSHA also requires that floors should not have nails, splinters, holes, or loose boards.
When should hospital disinfectants be used on the floor?
Floors are not considered clinical contact surfaces. They do not require disinfectant at all times. They do need hospital disinfectant when contaminated with blood or other fluids.
What will help determine if a patient poses a risk to the dental assistant?
Patients with communicable diseases may not show signs of illness. A medical history will provide information about medical conditions. This will determine if a patient is a risk to the dental assistant.
What type of exposure control plan does OSHA require of workplaces with occupational exposure?
A written exposure control plan is required so employees can referenced whenever needed. This is also desirable because it allows for less room of interpretational error.
According to OSHA, what is the maximum number of rems per quarter allowed for the exposure of employees skin over the entire body to ionizing radiation?
OSHA has established figures regarding the maximum amount of exposure employees may have per quarter to ionizing radiation. These are as follows: 1.4 rems: head and trunk, blood forming organs, gonads or eye lenses. 18.75: hands/forearms and feet/ankles. 7.5: skin of the entire body
What is true of clinical shoes?
Clinic shoes are not worn outside of the clinic. They need to be disinfected. The shoelaces can be washed when necessary.
According to OSHA, what is the first step to be observed when employees eyes come in contact with microorganisms or hazardous materials?
The first step toward minimizing the effects of microorganisms/hazardous materials that have contact with eyes, is to flush them. If this does not resolve the issue, further action may be taken.
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