Bacteria-killing technology helps dental care carry on through Covid
Patients receiving dental care at UHNM are benefitting from the use of an innovative new device which destroys airborne bacteria. The Ajax aerosol droplet extractor removes bacteria released into the air during aerosol-generating procedures and destroys it using UV light. County Hospital is one of the first to begin using the devices, which have enabled staff to continue caring for patients safely throughout the pandemic.
The extractor is positioned close to the patient’s face during a procedure and any dust, germs and bacteria released into the air are sucked in by the machine. The tiny particles pass through a high specification HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) filter which dries and shrinks them before they are killed by a UV light.
Sally Walker, Clinic Manager for the Oral and Maxillofacial department at County Hospital, said: “Many of the procedures we perform create a spray and the droplets which are released can contain potentially harmful particles. This creates an infection prevention and control challenge during normal times, but especially whilst we are dealing with Covid. Using the extractor has enabled us to carry on treating patients in a safer way. It has also helped to reduce the time it takes to conduct procedures because we don’t have to allow as much time for the air to clear after a procedure.
“Before we had the extractors we were trying our best to help patients by engaging with them over social media. We even posted videos on how to do small self-care procedures using nail clippers! But being able to carry on with care in hospital is much better for everyone. Essentially the equipment is protecting staff so that we can do the work, which then helps patients by ensuring they receive timely care. Although Covid has been the driving force behind this initiative, we will continue to use the machines past the pandemic because they really help to enhance infection prevention and control. They are a little noisy, so we have prepared all of our patients so they know what to expect when they come in for treatment. This enables us to continue to do our job and reassure our patients that it is a safe environment.”
The team have been making sure that BAME staff or anyone who is vulnerable has priority for using the equipment. The extractors are being used at both County Hospital and Royal Stoke University Hospital.