HESI General Chairside Assisting Practice Exam 2025 – The All-in-One Guide to Achieve Exam Success!

The responsibilities of a dental assistant in infection control are crucial for maintaining a safe and hygienic environment in the dental practice. The correct answer highlights key aspects of this role:

Ensuring proper sterilization of instruments is fundamental to infection control, as it prevents the transmission of pathogens from one patient to another. Dental assistants are trained to follow protocols that dictate how instruments should be cleaned, disinfected, and sterilized using appropriate techniques and equipment.

Using personal protective equipment (PPE) is also an essential part of infection control. This includes wearing gloves, masks, eyewear, and gowns to protect both the dental assistant and the patients from potential exposure to infectious agents during procedures. The consistent use of PPE helps to create a barrier against cross-contamination.

Cleaning and disinfecting surfaces in the dental operatory is critical in preventing the spread of infections. Dental assistants ensure that all surfaces, including countertops, dental chairs, and equipment, are properly cleaned and disinfected between patients, which reduces the risk of airborne or contact transmission of pathogens.

In contrast, options that suggest limited roles such as only assisting during surgery or focusing solely on administrative tasks do not encompass the full scope of a dental assistant's responsibilities in infection control. Effective infection control requires a proactive and comprehensive approach