Controlling the spread of infection should always be a top priority, particularly in spaces where medical care is provided. However, one thing that should always be remembered is that the way an area is designed contributes to the spread of infectious disease.
Design is more than just about choosing which colors go well together or pairing complementary furniture pieces. Design is primarily related to how a space functions and can be fully utilized by humans. In short, design directly influences human behavior.
Changes in the layout of dental offices should be implemented to combat the spread of SARS-CoV-2. The first thing to consider is how to separate patients from hazards, such as infectious waste. With COVID-19, anything that comes into contact with mucus or saliva should be considered highly infectious. Therefore, adjustments should be made so that waste can be handled, isolated, and disposed of more properly. Eating and drinking in waiting areas should be discouraged. Protocols must also be set in place to ensure that patients can maintain adequate distance in any part of the dental office.
Engineering controls should also be taken into consideration. When it comes to COVID-19, engineering controls utilize technology to eliminate or reduce occupational hazards. The CDC has released a statement that the virus can be aerosolized and remain airborne in spaces with limited airflow. Therefore, adjustments must be made to ensure the protection of those who remain in indoor spaces for extended periods. Barriers may be erected to prevent aerosolized droplets from drifting to other parts of the room. Additional ventilation may also be considered so that the viral load in the air will be reduced. Also, an indoor area must be rearranged to enclose hazardous processes.
All other tools within a space are also part of the area’s design. Automatic doors, faucets, and dispensers may be installed in order to reduce contact. With COVID-19, touchless is always better. Ultraviolet disinfection devices and other anti-microbial technology may also be put in place, with regular cleaning schedules throughout the day. Sterilization of all instruments must also be given additional attention.
All dentists and dental hygienists must wear personal protective equipment when dealing with patients. However, bear in mind that proper removal, storage, and disposal are also vital aspects of the best practices when it comes to PPE.
When HIV spread in the 80s and 90s, adjustments were made to ensure additional protection for both medical practitioners and patients. With the novel coronavirus, new strategies are being implemented as information regarding SARS-CoV-2 is continually released by various researchers. As dental practitioners, the best protection is to remain up-to-date and ensure that relevant information is effectively communicated to all patients and staff members.
Good design is always a response to needs. In the context of dental practice design, the response is due to the needs of the medical care providers, the protection of all staff members, and the safety and comfort of the patients. Beyond what has been deemed as the normal level of precaution and infection control in dental practice, adjustments due to COVID-19 are now the new best practices.
For details on how to bring these ideas to life or additional information about Interior Design, email?design@benco.com
Sources:
Benco Dental. (2020, August 27). One Step Ahead: New Design Concepts for Infection Prevention [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_eY6dCs-yds&feature=youtu.be
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2018). Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA). CDC. https://www.cdc.gov/phlp/publications/topic/hipaa.html
Nutt, S., Ellis, E., & Burry, A. (1999). The Truth About HIV/AIDS and Infection Control Practices in Dentistry. Journal of the Canadian Dental Association, 65(6), 334–336. https://cda-adc.ca/jcda/vol-65/issue-6/334.pdf
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