Handpiece safety Flashcards
What are the 3 safety checks?
Backcap doesn’t rotate
Bur resists pulling force when seated in chuck
Handpiece fits into coupling & resists applied tension
What are the 3 fit for use checks?
Bur rotates freely in device
Bur does not move laterally
When operated for 5 seconds, handpiece has consistent sound & there is no lateral movement of bur
What speed does a high speed but rotate at?
250,000 - 400,000 RPM
Why is device safety my concern?
MHRA guidance - Device user is responsible for its safe use
Dental handpiece manufacturer instruction manual advises to check for damage & loose parts
All devices may have been dropped, and will experience wear and tear
What is the handpiece safety protocol?
Check expiry date on sterilisation pouch
Check for obvious faults - dents in head, damaged surface of optical rod
6 Step safety check
What are the 6 safety checks?
Check backcap does not rotate
Pull the bur to check there is not movement
Fit handpiece to coupling and apply tension
Check bur spins freely
Check there is no lateral movement of bur
Run handpiece for 5 seconds and ensure the sound is consistent and there is no wobble of the bur
What shouold be done if a fault is found or suspected?
Inform a dental nurse who will complete a Dental Handpiece Fault Report
What are the benefits of completing the 6 safety checks?
Minimises the chance of harm to patient
Improves the chances of finding a fault at an early stage
Reduces chances of finding a device with a serious fault
Ensures devices are kept in optimal condition
How likely is is a device will have a fault?
200-300 need repairing each year
2% annually are found to have a loose backcap
25% of turbine handpieces in spot-check audit had a fault
