What aspect should be the primary focus when implementing a quality assurance program?

The primary focus of a quality assurance program in a dental practice should be to minimize patient exposure to radiation. This focus is critical for several reasons. First and foremost, dental radiography is an essential diagnostic tool, but it also involves exposure to ionizing radiation, which can pose health risks if not managed properly. Quality assurance protocols are designed to ensure that radiographic practices adhere to established safety standards, thereby protecting patients from unnecessary exposure.

In implementing a quality assurance program, various procedures should be in place to routinely check and maintain the equipment used for radiographs, ensure that staff are adequately trained in radiation safety, and develop protocols that utilize the lowest effective dose of radiation for diagnostic purposes. This approach not only safeguards the health of patients but also enhances trust in the clinic’s commitment to patient safety.

While optimizing radiographic clarity, improving workflow, and reducing costs are important considerations within a dental practice, they do not take precedence over patient safety. The foundational principle guiding any quality assurance program is to ensure that patient protection stands as the utmost priority, as the impacts of excessive radiation exposure can have long-term health consequences.