In response to the fast-spreading Omicron Variant, the Chief Medical Officer of Health (CMOH) has revised Directive #2 to stop all non-emergent and non-urgent major surgical procedures and dental procedures that carry a substantive risk of resulting in the use of emergency medical services or other hospital services. This measure is being taken to preserve critical-care capacity in hospitals and independent health facilities.
Although the revised Directive #2 does not directly impact the practice of dental technology, we recommend that all RDTs read the revised Directive #2 and be familiar with the impact on dental procedures and services provided by Dentists.
Changes to Directive #1 which took effect on December 22, 2021 are posted on the Colleges website. This is a reminder that the following changes are in place until further notice:
- For all in-person patient interactions and for the provision of in-person care (e.g., shade matching, repairs), RDTs and their involved staff must wear the following PPE:
- Fit-tested, seal-checked N95 respirator (or the equivalent, as approved by Health Canada).
- Eye protection (e.g., goggles, face shield or safety glass with side protection)
- Gown
- Gloves
- RDTs and staff who are not yet fit-tested must make reasonable efforts to obtain fit-testing at the earliest opportunity. While awaiting fit-testing for an N95 respirator, RDTs are required to wear a well fitted surgical/procedure mask, KN95 respirator or a non fit-tested N95 respirator (or the equivalent, as approved by Health Canada).
- RDTs must perform a point-of-care risk assessment (PCRA) before every patient interaction which is part of their routine practice.
Questions? Refer to CDTO’s COVID-19 Guidance for RDTs, COVID-19 webpage, or email rfar@cdto.ca
