There has been a big increase in the use of social media recently. While a lot of employees have their own social media profiles, many dental practices are now seeing the benefits of using social media to promote their business
Indemnity protects the career and professional status of the dental nurse, and a basic level of indemnity is essential. Different kinds of indemnity are available, and dental nurses need to understand them so they can choose the most appropriate for their role
So much of our current learning feels so repetitive and routine that our brains pay less attention to it. Presenters or tutors do most of the talking and audiences do most of the listening. In this article, Claire Deegan looks at strategies for increasing engagement in education and learning
Understanding a person's readiness to change could improve the way in which oral hygiene interventions and advice are given in the clinical setting. The aim of this article, therefore, is to provide a brief guide to behaviour change using motivational interviewing when discussing interdental cleanin
Dental nurses’ practice should be based on evidence to ensure it is safe and of a high standard. However, the nature of dental nurses’ education means they face barriers to carrying out evidence-based practice
The changing landscape of dental nursing is often discussed, but how many individuals think about their choice of primary qualification? This article provides an overview of the different dental nurse qualifications, and key considerations to take into account when making this decision
Good communication is central to patient compliance. Patients are more likely to comply with regimens if they have decided to follow them than if they have been told to do so, and an understanding of ego states can help dental care staff to empower patients in decision making
The General Dental Council has issued standards covering conduct, performance and ethics that apply to all dental care professionals and set out what patients should expect from them. Practices need to be aware of the standards and their implications
Dental nurses have professional responsibilities around the use of social media, in and outside the surgery, and must be aware of potential risks around patient confidentiality. This article is the first in a short series on regulatory developments of relevance to dental nurses
Harris CM, Welbury R, Cairns AM (2013) The Scottish dental practitioner's role in managing child abuse and neglect. Br Dent J214: E24
What is influence, how is it developed and what can be done with it? Dental nurses can and should be able to use influence to promote change that benefits themselves, their profession and, most importantly, their patients
Neglect is the commonest and one of the most harmful forms of child abuse. Dental professionals need to be aware of general and dental neglect, how to identify these problems and the action they need to take
How are contracts of employment dealt with at your practice? Victoria Patterson provides some guidance on the law, including the legal obligation to provide written particulars, and offers some practical tips on key things to consider when looking at contracts of employment in the dental sector
It's January and everyone is thinking about the upcoming year and what opportunities this year may bring. So what's in store for dental nurses in 2013 and how can you get involved more in supporting your profession?
Many things can complicate holiday entitlement. The rules and regulations around holiday pay and conditions can be difficult to navigate. Legal expert, Victoria Patterson, answers questions to tell you all you need to know
