As mentioned in Monday's "7-Step Sedation Dentistry Safety Checklist," emergency preparedness is a critical part of sedation dentistry safety. The following are a few aspects of emergency preparedness that are important to remember.
Run Drills
Run emergency drills at least once a quarter. Everyone in your practice, including team members and office staff, should participate. Make sure everyone in your office knows where emergency drugs and equipment are stored. Practice drills using emergency equipment to ensure the dental team is confident in assisting you should an emergency ever occur.
ACLS Training
ADA guidelines recommend ACLS or advanced airway management training for dentists who provide moderate sedation. ACLS needs to be renewed every two years. Having everyone in the dental office ACLS trained ensures that you are as prepared as possible for an emergency.
Have the Proper Equipment
AEDs
Sudden cardiac arrest kills 365,000 Americans annually. Sadly, that's the same rate of mortality that existed in 1995. The American Heart Association estimates we can save 50,000 lives annually with AEDs. The initial effect of defibrillation is actually the cessation of electrical activity. Generally, this interruption is the only intervention that's effective in regaining a normal heart rhythm and resuming its primary job of pumping. While AEDs have become easier to use they have also dramatically dropped in price, generally costing between $1,000 and $3,000.
Vital Signs Monitor
While most state dental boards require a vital signs monitor during sedation dentistry, it is crucial to be reminded how important it is to use yours thoroughly and correctly. Review how to use and read the vital signs monitor along with your team.
Equipment Maintenance
AED Pads
These have a shelf-life of two years. Check the expiration dates on the front and back sides. DOCS Education recommends that every dental practice keep at least two pairs on hand.
AED Battery
Check the battery by opening the lid and examining the battery status indicator. DOCS Education recommends that a back-up battery is always on hand.
Finger Sensors
These have an average lifespan of 18-24 months. Worn-out finger sensors can lead to inaccurate Sp02 readings.
Blood Pressure Cuffs
Blood pressure cuffs have an average lifespan of 12-18 months. The Velcro® on the cuff can begin to buckle, causing inaccurate blood pressure readings. DOCS Education recommends that doctors keep double sets of finger sensors and blood pressure cuffs as a safety precaution. If you have any questions or need to order equipment, please contact a DOCS Education Representative at 877.326.3627.