Tips for Practices Open for Emergencies

Institute Patient Pre-screening

1. Screen patients for travel and signs and symptoms of infection prior to appointment.
2. Ask permission to take the temperature of patients prior to performing procedures. You can also institute daily temperature screenings of team members.
3. Allow patients to “check in” from their vehicles instead of the reception area to allow for distancing.

Practice Proper Hand Hygiene

1. Wash hands frequently and between every patient interaction with warm, soapy water for 30 seconds.
2. Make hand sanitizer and hand wash materials available to patients upon check in.
3. Clean and disinfect public areas frequently, including door handles, chairs and bathrooms.
4. Remove all reading materials and children’s toys/books from waiting rooms.

Follow Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Guidelines

1. Perform hand hygiene before putting on PPE.
2. The order for putting on PPE is: Gown or Lab jacket, Mask, Eye Protection, then Gloves. The order for removing PPE is Gloves, Gown or Lab jacket, Eye Protection, Mask.
3. Apply Universal precautions.
4. Utilize a Rubber Dam for procedures where appropriate and have patients rinse with 1% hydrogen peroxide solution prior to procedures.
5. Utilize Surface Disinfectant and Room Sterilization Procedures.

This information was gathered from industry leading experts. This is not legal advice and intended as a general guide. Refer to your state regulations for specific mandates and guidelines.

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