8 February 2012
During a routine inspection
The dentist told us he always explained the treatment patients needed and talked to them about the options available to them and how much it would cost. He said patients were encouraged to express their views as to what was important to them in relation to their care and treatment.
The dentist told us all patients received personalised care, treatment and support through very careful coordinated assessment that reflected their needs, preferences and diversity.
The dental nurses told us the practice had linked all their policies and procedures to the relevant essential standard outcomes. They were very knowledgeable about safeguarding children and vulnerable adults. They described accurately what they would to do if they suspected any form of abuse.
The dental nurse told us there were detailed policies and procedures in place for the safe use of emergency medication. She said all staff were aware of these and they had been trained to use emergency dental equipment. She explained all patients were asked about their medical history and any known allergies including previous reactions to local anaesthetics and antibiotics.
The dental nurses explained to us in detail the practice procedures on the decontamination processes. They were aware of the code of practice on the prevention and control of infections and related guidance.
The dentist told us there were very robust procedures and measures in place at the practice to ensure that all equipment was in good working order. He showed us the records that he kept for all the external contractors that he used to maintain all the equipment at the practice.
The dentists told us how the practice supported staff through training, peer group support and appraisals to make sure they were working to the best clinical guidelines for their professions.
Staff spoken with told us they were very happy working at the practice and felt they received a good level of training and support. The majority of staff had worked at the practice for several years. We were told by the dentist tahta it was a teaching practice. One trainee dental nurse told us she had received excellent support and training from the dental team. She told us she had just completed her training and was waiting for her certificate so she could register with the GDC.
The dentist clearly explained to us the systems the practice had in place to check quality and to manage risk. He told us the practice adhered to the Department of Health recommendations for assessing and the implementation of HTM 01-05 guidelines.