Types of Quality Control Tests
Dental film: Test each new box for freshness.
Dental x-ray machine: Calibrate equipment regularly.
Casettes and phosphor storage plates (PSPs): Clean and examine for scratches.
Safelighting: Check for light-tightness.
Automatic processor: Follow manufacturer’s recommendations meticulously regarding maintenance.
Manual processor: Replenish daily and change every 3 to 4 weeks.
X-Ray Machine Quality Control Steps:
1. Test output of x-rays.
2. Text size of focal spot.
3. Test tubehead for stability.
4. Test timer for accuracy.
5. Test Milliamperage.
6. Test Kilovoltage.
Administrative Quality Control Steps:
1. Develop and maintain a written description of the quality assurance plan.
2. Assign specific duties to staff members, and ensure that each individual is thoroughly trained to perform those assigned duties.
3. Maintain records of monitoring and maintenance.
4. Review the plan periodically and revise it as necessary.
Checklist for Infection Control in Dental Radiography:
Before Exposure
Treatment Area (covered or disinfected)
X-ray machine
Dental chair
Work area
Lead apron
Computer keyboard/mouse
Equipment and Supplies (prepared before seating patient)
Image receptor (film, sensor, or phosphor storage plate [PSP])
Positioning devices
Cotton rolls
Paper towel
Disposable container
Patient Preparation (performed before putting on gloves)
1. Adjust chair.
2. Adjust headrest.
3. Place lead apron.
4. Remove personal objects.
Operator Preparation (completed before exposure)
1. Wash hands.
2. Put gloves on.
3. Assemble positioning devices.
During Exposure
Film/PSP Handling
1. Dry exposed film or PSP with paper towel.
2. Place dried film in disposable container or transfer.
Positioning Devices
1. Transfer positioner from work area to mouth.
2. Transfer positioner from mouth back to work area.
a. NOTE: Never place a positioner on uncovered countertop.
After Exposure
Before Glove Removal
1. Dispose of all contaminated items.
2. Place positioning devices in designated area for contaminated equipment.
After Glove Removal
1. Wash hands.
2. Remove lead apron.
Surface Likely to be Contaminated During X-Ray Procedures
X-ray tubehead and positioning indicator device (PID)
X-ray control panel
Exposure button
Lead apron
Dental chair controls
Operatory counter surfaces
Darkroom equipment
Sleeves on automatic processors/scanners
Computer, monitor, and mouse
Practicing Infection Control During Film Exposure
Goal:
To perform all infection control practices during film exposure.
Equipment and supplies:
Barriers for operatory
Paper towels
Dental film (sizes as necessary)
Packaged positioning device
Film barriers (optional)
Lead apron with thyroid collar
Disposable container for exposed films (labeled with patient’s name)
Surface cleaner/disinfectant
Procedural Steps:
1. Wash and dry hands.
2. Place surface barriers on equipment and work area.
3. Set out the packaged positioning device, film, labeled container for exposed film, paper towel, and other miscellaneous items you might need.
a. Purpose: Once gloved, you should not have to leave operatory area for additional materials
4. Seat the patient and place the lead apron.
5. Wash and dry hands and don gloves.
6. After each exposure, wipe excess saliva from the film using a paper towel.
7. Place each exposed film into the container, being careful not to touch the external surface.
a. Purpose: Your contaminated gloves will contaminate the outer surface of the container.
8. After the exposures are complete, remove the lead apron and dismiss the patient.
9. While still gloved, remove barriers, taking care not to touch the surfaces underneath.
a. Purpose: You must wear gloves while removing barriers, because
