Ensuring Patient Safety in Pediatric Dental Care

Abstract

This review aims to examine safety concerns in pediatric dental care and underscore the need for comprehensive patient safety initiatives within the Korean Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. Drawing insights from the prevailing patient safety policies of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, case reports, and systematic reviews, this review elucidates issues such as dental fires during sedation, ocular complications from local anesthesia, and surgical emphysema. This review highlights the significance of safety toolkits encompassing infection control, medical error reduction, dental unit waterline infection, and nitrous oxide safety in pediatric dental settings, underscoring the need to foster a safety culture. Furthermore, this study explores the curriculum for pediatric dentistry residency programs, emphasizing concepts such as high-reliability organizations and mortality and morbidity conferences. The study suggests the need for initiatives to enhance patient safety, including establishing safety committees, expanding reporting systems, policy development, and supporting research related to patient safety. In conclusion, this study underlines key messages, emphasizing the utmost priority of patient safety, acknowledging the inevitability of human error, promoting effective communication, and cultivating a patient safety culture. These principles are vital for advancing patient safety in pediatric dental care and improving outcomes among pediatric patients.