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Update on clinical attire requirements in dental hygiene programs
1Dental Hygiene Department at Indiana University-Purdue University, Fort Wayne.
Journal of Dental Hygiene : JDH
|May 1, 1994
Summary
Dental hygiene clinical attire has evolved towards a more surgical appearance due to increased infection control. Requirements for uniforms, gowns, and protective gear have changed significantly since 1988.
Area of Science:
- Dental hygiene
- Infection control
- Public health
Background:
- Clinical attire in dental hygiene has undergone changes.
- Increased emphasis on infection control and disease prevention.
- Evolution of professional standards in dental hygiene practice.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess current (1993) clinical attire requirements in dental hygiene programs.
- To compare 1993 requirements with those from a 1988 survey.
- To identify trends in dental hygiene student and faculty attire.
Main Methods:
- Mailed checklist questionnaires to 211 U.S. and Puerto Rico dental hygiene programs in October 1993.
- Collected data on uniforms, gowns, lab coats, masks, eyewear, shoes, hair coverings, and laundry.
- Calculated response percentages by region and overall.
Main Results:
- 84% response rate (178/211 programs).
- Increased use of colorful uniforms/scrubs, long-sleeved lab coats, disposable/washable gowns.
- Face shields increasingly used optionally with mandatory masks; students responsible for laundry.
Conclusions:
- Clinical attire trends reflect a move towards enhanced personal and patient protection.
- Dental hygiene educators are adapting to federal infection control guidelines.
- Ongoing monitoring of regulations ensures updated clinical practice standards.