Sterilization Smarts: What Hygienists Need to Know About Instrument Care

Proper instrument reprocessing and maintenance are critical responsibilities for dental hygienists, directly impacting patient safety, infection control compliance, and the longevity of clinical instruments. This one-hour webinar will guide dental hygienists through the complete instrument reprocessing workflow: from point-of-use handling to sterilization, storage, and ongoing maintenance. Participants will review current best practices, common errors, and practical strategies to improve efficiency, protect instrumentation, and maintain compliance with infection prevention standards. Emphasis will be placed on the hygienist’s role in identifying wear, preventing damage, and supporting a safe clinical environment.

Objectives:
1. Describe the essential steps of instrument reprocessing including cleaning, packaging, sterilization, and storage in accordance with CDC Guidelines.
2. Identify common causes of instrument damage and premature wear related to improper handling, reprocessing, and maintenance.
3. Apply best practices for instrument care and maintenance to enhance instrument longevity, performance, and patient safety in daily clinical practice.