Patient safety is of the utmost importance for dental professionals and office owners. It is essential that all health care providers and organizations familiarize themselves with the general context of patient safety, actively participate in efforts to implement patient safety measures in daily practice, and establish a culture of patient safety. Clinical records should be reviewed in detail to protect patients and the office, and minimize the risk of liability. Taking shortcuts is often expensive, so it is important to take the time to review the details of the procedure.
Avoid Reuse of Tools and Packaging Materials
Dental teams should be reminded that taking shortcuts can be costly.To ensure patient safety, it is important to avoid the reuse of tools and packaging materials intended solely for treatment. The World Dental Federation (FDI) plays an active role in raising awareness among dentists on issues related to patient safety. It is a mistake to think that patient safety has not been a consideration for all clinicians for many years.
Develop Checklists and Surgery Policies
To promote a culture of patient safety in dental practice, it is suggested that a clinical efficacy panel be developed, as well as checklists for use in a dental environment, and a surgery policy on the right dental site for use in an outpatient setting. Formal research on patient safety is not new, and patient safety initiatives have been under way over the past century.Periodic Patient Safety Alerts
The program sends health care providers periodic patient safety alerts derived from the analysis of incident reports and other safety information.Not all dental professionals are aware of the culture of patient safety and there is even some ignorance of the concept. The ultimate goal is to create a culture that places patient safety at the center of what all health professionals do, including dentists and dental health professionals. In conclusion, patient safety remains a top priority for office owners and dental teams. Taking the time to review the details of the procedure protects patients and the office and minimizes the risk of liability. It is essential that all health care providers and organizations familiarize themselves with the general context of patient safety, actively participate in efforts to implement patient safety measures in daily practice, and establish a culture of patient safety.
