Most states dictate what your dental practice should include in their emergency management plan, including CPR certifications and external defibrillators. The first step to managing emergencies and adverse events is creating a written plan, designating staff members responsible, and practicing the plan. Below are some items that should be included in an emergency management plan:
1. Include an office policy and protocol regarding responsibilities and directives for the staff.
2. Post responsibilities in a common area so everyone is aware of them.
3. Mandatory periodic training and practice will help prepare for an event and reinforce staff responsibilities. Include any temporary or part-time employees in the training and practice.
4. All supplies should be replaced at expiration, oxygen tanks refilled as needed and have a validation tag, and AED batteries monitored and replaced as needed. In addition, replenishment and disposal should take place during this check.
5. Be sure that oxygen is in working order by testing the system. It is recommended to have a mobile unit so the oxygen can be moved to where the unexpected event is taking place.
6. Proper storage and disposal of blood-borne pathogens.
7. Preventative vaccinations and proper protective equipment for employees and practitioners.
8. Document in the procedure manual all actions that have been performed by the staff member of the practice responsible for emergency care.
Author(s)
Stuart J. Oberman, Esq.
Stuart J. Oberman is the founder and President of Oberman Law Firm. Mr. Oberman graduated from Urbana University and received his law degree from John Marshall Law School. Mr. Oberman has been practicing law for over 30 years, and before going into private practice, Mr. Oberman was in-house counsel for a Fortune 500 Company.
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