RESUMEN
There are few guidelines available for dental school faculty and administrators in the management of hepatitis B e-antigen positive (HBeAg+) dental school applicants. It is apparent that this serostatus is unique and requires a different approach from that used for applicants with other infectious diseases, such as the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). The issue is examined from a number of perspectives, including the science, policy, legal, and ethical considerations confronted in establishing a policy for the HBeAg+ dental school applicant.
Asunto(s)
Antígenos e de la Hepatitis B/sangre , Criterios de Admisión Escolar , Facultades de Odontología , Estudiantes de Odontología , Personal Administrativo , Enfermedades Transmisibles , Ética Profesional , Docentes de Odontología , Guías como Asunto , Infecciones por VIH , Política de Salud , Hepatitis B/prevención & control , Hepatitis B/transmisión , Humanos , Transmisión de Enfermedad Infecciosa de Profesional a Paciente/prevención & control , Formulación de Políticas , Facultades de Odontología/legislación & jurisprudencia , Facultades de Odontología/organización & administraciónRESUMEN
In September 1998, a California Assembly bill was signed into law that requires significant changes to the Cal/OSHA Bloodborne Pathogens Standard. As of July 1, 1999, all health care employers in the state must begin providing sharps safety devices. For dentistry, this means a shift from the traditional needles to safety needles with engineered built-in safety mechanisms. Some exceptions are provided in this new regulatory change. There is no reliable data on the safety and efficacy of the available devices. This article explores the regulatory changes and begins to provide information on the devices available. Design features, usability by the practitioner, and safety to the patient are important issues to consider when deciding whether these devices are appropriate for dental anesthesia. Most practitioners will find it difficult to conduct an independent evaluation and must rely on information in the professional literature to help guide their decisions.