ADHA Interim Guidance on Returning to Work - In order to protect the dental hygienist, the dental team and patients, the American

ADHA Interim Guidance on Returning to Work In order to protect the dental hygienist, the dental team and patients, the American Dental Hygienists’ Association (ADHA) continues to support the recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) that balance the need to provide necessary services while minimizing risk to patients and dental healthcare personnel (DHCP). [...] Provide dental treatment only after you have assessed the patient and considered both the risk to the patient of deferring care and the risk to DHCP and patients of healthcare-associated SARS-CoV-2 transmission. [...] Communication within the Dental Team Meet with your employer and the entire dental team to have an open conversation about: • Current supply of PPE and new supplies needed • Screening practice for COVID-19 • Methods to reduce/eliminate aerosol production in the office • Strategies for social distancing among patients and the dental team • Scheduling changes for providers to allow for appropriate d. [...] • Patient volume - Determine the maximum number of patients who can safely receive care at the same time in the dental facility, based on the number of rooms, the layout of the facility, and the time needed to clean and disinfect patient operatories. [...] Grasp the top strap and bring it carefully over the head, and then pull the respirator away from the face without touching the front of the respirator.