Your office is open again and things are running smoothly, and then you get the news: an employee suspects they have COVID-19. What is next?
- The employee that suspects they have COVID-19 should be sent home immediately. The employee needs to seek medical treatment that includes being tested for COVID-19. If they are positive, they need to quarantine for the recommended amount of time. The CDC is stating that if there are no symptoms for 10 days after a positive test, the individual can be around others.
- Perform the recommended ADA Staff Exposure Risk Assessment for all staff members who may have had contact with the infected employee. Follow the required recommendations from the ADA risk assessment.
- Clean and disinfect surfaces in the office per the CDC Infection Prevention and Control Guidelines for Dental Settings During the COVID-10 Response.
- Follow state specific protocols for notifying patients. The Oregon Dental Association is having all dentists contact their local county health department to let them know they have a positive test case. The health department will provide guidelines on what is needed for staff and patients.
We understand this is a stressful time. Please reach out with any specific questions. We hope you continue to stay safe and healthy!