The infection control policy in each dental workplace is followed to minimise the risk of cross infection between any persons in the premises. Which one of the following entries should be present specifically to protect staff from being infected by a patient?

Wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) correctly is essential for protecting staff from potential infections transmitted by patients in a dental setting. PPE serves as a barrier between healthcare professionals and infectious agents that may be present in blood, saliva, or other bodily fluids. This includes items such as gloves, masks, goggles, and face shields, which are designed to prevent direct exposure.

When staff wear PPE correctly, they significantly reduce the risk of contamination during procedures that involve contact with patients. This practice is crucial in maintaining a safe working environment and is a key component of infection control protocols in dental practices. Proper adherence to PPE guidelines ensures that dental personnel are safeguarded against diseases that could otherwise be transmitted during patient care.

While reusable items, handwashing, and sterilizing instruments are all important aspects of infection control, they primarily focus on preventing cross-infection between patients and ensuring environmental cleanliness rather than directly protecting staff from patient infections. Therefore, the inclusion of wearing PPE correctly addresses the specific need to protect dental staff from exposure to infections coming from patients.