Description

The dental profession is one of the most at-risk professions in the area of musculoskeletal injury due to multiple ergonomic risk factors. The dental practitioner has many elements to consider when attempting to reduce these risk factors and extend their career life. In addition to posture, which is what most people think about when the term "ergonomics" is mentioned, there are considerations in PPE, microbreaks, and operatory design. Each of these areas can either enhance or diminish the health of the dental practitioner's body. At the conclusion of this course, participants will be able to identify new ergonomic concerns as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, learn about the importance of stretching and microbreaks, and the importance of operatory design and layout to preserve musculoskeletal health.

Learning objectives

Identify 'new" ergonomic concerns with the incorporation of additional PPE, such as N95 respirators and face shields
Understand the importance and implementation of microbreaks into their daily practice, as well as the most beneficial stretches for dental practitioners
Learn ideal operatory design for maximum efficiency and musculoskeletal health

Course created: 2020
Course reviewed: 2022