ashrestha13
New Member
How would you answer the questions "Should dentists who are HIV positive be able to practice dentistry?"
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Interview question
Started by ashrestha13
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HIV is not nearly as deadly as it once was, if you're in the US and can receive treatment
But that's interesting. So if a dentist accidentally cuts through their glove while drilling in a patients mouth, they could transmit HIV to the patient (blood fluid exchange). What kind of precautions can you take here?
But that's interesting. So if a dentist accidentally cuts through their glove while drilling in a patients mouth, they could transmit HIV to the patient (blood fluid exchange). What kind of precautions can you take here?
What about double gloving? If there are two layers of gloves, then wouldn't there be a greater chance for the dentist to notice the drill caught on his gloves before it does damage to the inner pair and the skin? What about a tighter inner pair of gloves and a slightly looser outer pair? The looser outer pair can "give" more before breaking. The tighter inner pair would resist getting caught in the drill as it grabs onto the looser outer pair.
I hear you. Do you know if dentists are supposed to disclose to patients if they have HIV?
I feel that personally, I wouldn't want a dentist with HIV operating on me. I'm very risk averse when it comes to personal health, and even a 1% chance of contracting HIV is too high for me.
But as long as the dentist discloses that he has HIV, and the patient is fine with it, I don't really see why the dentist shouldn't be allowed to practice.
I agree. I don't think this is a type of question that an interview may ask you.
You won't get this question but the correct answer regardless if its the dentist with HIV or the patient with HIV is;
Do not say anything that discriminates. A dentist with HIV and a patient with HIV are both fine and nothing extra should be done. HIV+ dentists should not have to double-glove or anything and you should NOT double-glove if you know your patient is HIV+. ADCOMS want you to treat everyone equally and fairly.
short answer - of course! One cannot discriminate on the basis of a diagnosis.
