Figure 3-1. Adjusting the dental operating chair.
3-7.
PREPARING FOR TREATMENT
a. Placement of Patient and Handwashing by the Dental Specialist. After the
dental chair is adjusted to a comfortable operating position, patient safety glasses are
placed on the patient, and a towel is fastened in place with a dental napkin holder around
the patient's neck, the dental specialist will put his mask and protective eyewear on and
wash his hands in full view of the patient before putting on gloves and handling any
instruments.
b. Arrangement of Instruments. Instruments for the procedure are taken from
the cabinet and laid out in the arrangement and the location used. If the dental handpiece
and saliva ejector mouthpiece are to be used, they are attached to the dental unit after the
patient is seated so that the patient knows they are sterile. Following this, a sterile air and
water syringe will be attached. Mouth mirror, explorer, periodontal probe, and cotton pliers
are also set out after the patient is seated. Instruments are neatly arranged in the center of
the Alabama cart on a table cover.
c. Lighting. As the dental officer approaches the patient, the operating light is
turned on and adjusted to the operative field.
MD0510
3-6