The Organization for Safety & Asepsis Procedures (OSAP), Annapolis, MD, has released "From Policy to Practice: OSAP’s Interactive Guide to the CDC Guidelines." The free online program uses a variety of methods to help dental professionals learn how to implement the CDC Guidelines for Infection Control in Dental Health-Care Settings. The program is available in English and Spanish.
The format of the interactive guide to the CDC Guidelines is based on the adult learning theory that people have different styles of learning and that the different styles play a significant role in retention. Participants can read the content and, if interested, conduct further research on specific topics by referring to the resource list. Audio narration is available for those who prefer to learn by listening. For visual learners, the OSAP program contains photographs, illustrations, and diagrams. For those who like to engage with course content, the program is highly interactive.
There are seven modules in the course: "The Importance of Infection Control," "Take Action to Stay Healthy," "Avoid Contact with Blood and Body Fluids," "Make Objects Safe for Use," "Limit Contamination," "Special Considerations," and "Program Evaluation." A glossary provides definitions and phrases used within the course, and a readily available help screen assists with course navigation.
The guide can be accessed free of charge here. For those who wish to be tested on the material and earn 10 CE credits, there is a special introductory processing fee of $20 for members and $40 for nonmembers through December 1. After that, processing fees will increase to $100 and $150, respectively, for the 10 CE hours.
