Chairside Assisting Syllabus for 2020-2021
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Instructor Information

Course Information

COVID-19 Protocols

Recording Policy

Disability Statement

If you have a disability (learning, mental, physical) that affects your ability to participate effectively and have access to any program or service at Amarillo College please contact Disability Services at (806) 345-5639 . Our offices are located in the Student Service Center office 112. More information may be found at www.actx.edu/disability.
Disability Services facilitates access to all programs and services according to the ADA, Americans with Disabilities Act and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, as well as other federal and state laws.

Amarillo College Web Accessibility Policy Statement

Amarillo College is committed to providing equal access to all programs and services, including all working, learning, and service environments that affect equal access for persons with disabilities. This commitment to provide equal access and opportunity for persons with disabilities is in compliance with federal and state law. Amarillo College also strives to provide Electronic and Information Resources (EIR) that are accessible to all authorized users.

If you find you are unable to access material in an accessible format please contact the Disability Services Office at (806) 345-5639 . This office will work in conjunction with other campus resources to address and accommodate your issue in a timely manner.

Statement for Mental Health and Advocacy & Resource Center:

As a student you may experience a range of issues that can cause barriers to learning, such as strained relationships, increased anxiety, alcohol/drug problems, feeling down, difficulty concentrating and/or lack of motivation. These mental health concerns or stressful events may lead to diminished academic performance or reduce a student's ability to participate in daily activities. Amarillo College offers services to assist you with addressing these and other concerns you may be experiencing. If you or someone you know are suffering from any of the aforementioned conditions, you can learn more about the broad range of confidential mental health services available on campus by calling the AC Counseling Center at 806-371-5900. The AC Counseling Center website is https://www.actx.edu/counseling/ . Also, if you are in need of social services (affordable housing, utilities, transportation, food, clothing, childcare, medical/dental/vision, legal), please call the AC Advocacy & Resource Center at 806-371-5439. The AC Advocacy & Resource Center website is https://www.actx.edu/arc

Amarillo College Tutoring for Success Policy:

The Tutoring for Success policy applies to any student whose grade or performance in the course falls below a departmentally determined minimum threshold. In either of those cases, the instructor will direct the student to the appropriate tutoring service, which may be faculty-led, discipline-specific, and/or general. Under this policy, the instructor will follow specific departmental guidelines governing the use, duration, and grade component of the tutoring need.

Administrative Drop Policy

Students who do not attend class on or prior to the census date will be administratively dropped. Effective Fall, 2016

Student Withdrawal Procedures

Students who wish to withdraw from a course must complete all steps indicated on the Academic Withdrawal Request form by the course withdrawal deadline.

NOTE: Students who are attending Texas institutions of higher education, for the first time fall 2007 and later, may not withdraw from more than six courses during their academic career. This withdrawal limitation does not include dual credit or developmental classes (Senate Bill 1231 Rule 4.10.) For more information on Drop and Withdrawal Policies, please visit the Registrar's Office Web site.

Privacy Statement

The Amarillo College Privacy Policy is found at https://www.actx.edu/-amarillo-college-privacy-notice , and applies to all Amarillo College students.  If you have questions about this privacy statement or you believe that your personal information has been released without your consent, send email to humanresources@actx.edu .

Course

DNTA-1315-001 Chairside Assisting

Prerequisites

Course Description

A study of pre-clinical chairside assisting procedures, instrumentation, OSHA and other regulatory agencies' standards.

Student ResourcesStudent Resources Website

Department Expectations

Occupational License Disclaimer

Notice to Students enrolled in an educational program for preparation of issuance of certain occupational licenses:

Students enrolled in an educational program in preparation for obtaining certain occupational licenses are potentially ineligible for such license if the student has been convicted of an offense. For further information, please contact:

Melodie Graves
Justice Involved Advocate
Student Service Center 117
mgraves24@actx.edu
806-371-5995
Make appointment at https://melodiegraves.youcanbook.me

You can also contact the Legal Clinic, or the faculty member in charge of the educational program that you seek to enroll in. The further information you will receive will include notification to you of your right to request a criminal history evaluation letter from the licensing authority in order to clarify your particular situation.

Hours

(3 sem hrs; 2 lec, 2 lab)

Class Type

On Campus Course

Syllabus Information

Textbooks

Modern Dental Assisting, 13th ed.; Doni Bird , Debbie S. Robinson; Saunders Elsevier, Inc. 

Modern Dental Assisting Workbook, 13th ed.

Dental Instruments, 7th ed.; Bartolomucci, Linda Boyd

For E-Book, the instructor may offer highlights for students to subscribe to. The student will be expected to know, not only the information in the highlighted sections, but ALL information provided via textbook, lecture, lab assignments, etc. Do not rely on only the highlighted text. 

Supplies

Computer with RELIABLE Internet Access for Blackboard 

1 Folder or Binder

Typodont

Proper clinical attire is required; including gowns, mask, protective eyewear, gloves, etc. Students will need to refer to the course calendar, and Blackboard announcements for specific duties of each class period. 

Student Performance

Given the course textbook, personal notes, and handouts, the student should:
    1.   Learn technical terminology, facts, theories and principals associated with the various dental specialties.

    2.   Apply knowledge learned in class to concrete or particular situations in a dental office setting.

    3.   Evaluate the learning experience from the perspective of the specific course objectives.

  

             Learning Outcomes

1. 1.   List and describe various surfaces in a dental office and describe AND demonstrate the proper methods used to clean, disinfect and   protect those surfaces
2. Name types of items that are "single-use" and properly dispose of those items
3. Identify items that may either be single use or reusable
4. Explain the difference between disinfection and sterilization
5. Explain the difference between a disinfectant and an antiseptic
6. Name the government agency that regulates dental office disinfectants
7. Describe the role of the CDC in disinfecting methods
8. Discuss and demonstrate the seven steps involved in processing dental instruments
9. Describe the three most common methods of heat sterilization AND list the advantages/disadvantages to each method
10. Explain the differences between process indicators and integrators
11. Explain how sterilizer failures can happen
12. Describe the three forms of sterilization monitoring
13. Explain the limitations of liquid chemical sterilant
14. Describe the classifications of various dental instruments to determine the type of processing necessary
15. Explain the purpose of a holding solution
16. Describe the roles(s) of the FDA, EPA, CDC, OSHA ADA, NIOSH in infection control measures used in dentistry
17. Describe potential long-term and short-term effects of exposure to chemicals
18. Explain the purpose of the OSHA Hazard Communication Standard
19. Describe the three common methods of chemical exposure
20. Describe the difference between acute and chronic exposure
21. Describe proper storage of chemicals
22. Identify types of regulated waste generated by the dental office
23. Explain why dental unit waterlines contain more bacteria than faucets
24. List the factors involved in bacterial contamination of dental unit waterlines
25. List and describe the examination and diagnostic techniques used for patient assessment
26. List the six categories of Blacks classification of cavities
27. Explain anatomic and geometric charting methods and the use of color coding
28. Discuss the use of and demonstrate the use of a defibrillator
29. Describe common signs and symptoms of emergency and how to recognize the
30. Describe the roles played by the office team during an emergency
31. List the basic items in an emergency kit
32. Discuss rinsing the oral cavity including the use of the air/water syringe
33. List/describe various isolation techniques
34. Discuss the importance of keeping the field of vision clean and dry for the operator and the assistant
35. List the equipment and supplies necessary for use of the dental dam
36. Describe the rationale for immunizations
37. Describe First Aide following exposure incident
38. Explain advantages/disadvantages for alcohol rubs
39. Explain the various types of latex allergies

PERFORMANCE OUTCOMES

1.    Demonstrate the process of pre-cleaning and disinfecting a contaminated treatment room

2.    Demonstrate the proper use of barriers in setting up a treatment room for various procedures

3.    Demonstrate the proper steps in pre-cleaning contaminated dental instruments

4.    Demonstrate safety guidelines and precautions in using the ultrasonic cleaner, holding solutions, heat sterilizers and contaminated instruments

5.    Demonstrate CDC guidelines for preparing and packaging dental instruments for sterilization

6.    Demonstrate methods used to reduce bacteria in the Dental Unit Waterlines

7.    Demonstrate the role of the dental assistant in the clinical examination

8.   Take intra and extra- oral photographs of a manikin and patient

9.    Chart the oral cavity including existing conditions, restorations and assist in treatment planning

10.    Chart patient periodontal condition performed by hygienist or dentist

11.    Perform various grasps and positioning of the High Volume Evacuator during a procedure on manikins/classmates/patient

12.    Perform a limited- area and full - mouth rinse

13.    Place cotton rolls and dry angels for isolation

14.    Prepare, place and remove the dental dam on manikin

15.    Prepare the set-up for various classes of restorations.. ie.,, Class I, II, II, ect.

16.    Assemble Matrix retainer, bands and wedges

Students Rights and Responsibilities

Student Rights and Responsibilities

Log in using the AC Connect Portal

In order to receive your AC Connect Email, you must log in through AC Connect at https://acconnect.actx.edu .

If you are an active staff or faculty member according to Human Resources, use "Exchange". All other students, use "AC Connect (Google) Email".

Expected Student Behavior

Professional Standards

For maximum learning to occur, the student is expected to demonstrate professional conduct and judgment at all times. A violation of professional or ethical standard may result in a zero for the day as well as the student being sent home with an absence. The following are examples which are considered professional standards. These are representative examples and may not be all inclusive.

1. Student is prompt to class.

2. Student is prepared for class sessions.

3. Student assumes responsibility for his/her own learning.

4. Student is concerned with excellence in learning rather than just meeting the minimal criteria.

5. Student applies lecture material in the clinical setting.

6. Student will seek faculty assistance if needed, and will monitor their own progress in meeting course requirements.

7. Student maintains his/her composure, dealing with conflict in a constructive way.

8. Student exhibits an attitude  of respect for classmates, faculty, and staff.

9. Student will not be disruptive or talk to each other during lectures, slide presentations, guest lectures, etc. Should this occur, the student will be asked to leave the classroom immediately.

Failure to adhere to the above standards, will result in remediation and be reflected in the grade for the course in which the inappropriate conduct is displayed. 

Infection Control

“The Dental Assisting Program is committed to utilizing the most current research and technology to maintain an infection control program that is practical while meeting regulatory requirements. The policy for infection control procedures must be followed in strict compliance for the protection of patients, students, faculty, and staff from the transmission of disease or the spread of blood borne pathogens. All dental assisting students, faculty, and staff have the responsibility and ethical duty to comply with the infection control procedures".

 A high standard of conduct is expected of all Amarillo College Students. The student Code of Conduct is defined in the Amarillo College Students Rights and Responsibilities publication. This conduct may be located online at Amarillo Colleges main web page    www.actx.edu   click, catalog, then click "notices to students"

"Amarillo College expects a high standard of conduct from it's students. Students are expected to comply with the law, respect proper constitutional authority, obey College policies, rules and regulations. Unacceptable conduct is defined as an action or behavior that is contrary to the best interest of a fellow student of students, the faculty or staff, the College, or the teaching/learning process. Students failing to  perform according to established standards may be subject to disciplinary action. Policies, standards, rules, and regulations apply to students attending College activities whether the activity takes place on or off campus.

Each student shall be responsible for becoming knowledgeable of the contents and provisions of College policies, rules and regulations concerning student conduct .  In some cases, individual programs may have approved policies for student conduct which also apply to student conduct in those programs."

Communication 

Continuous communication with the instructors is encouraged. To allow for good, open, honest, and transparent communication please follow the guidelines below:

1. Instructor Office Hours are FOR STUDENTS. Please consider this time and opportunity for you to communicate with your instructors. 

2. Utilize your AC email for questions regarding grades, absences, policies, etc. This maintains a record of the discussion for both you and the instructor. 

3. Check your AC email EVERYDAY. The instructor will use this method of communication to make important announcements and changes in the schedule. This is also how other AC faculty and staff will communicate with you. 

4. Allow 24-48 hours for response from the Instructor. You can expect a 24-48 hour response Monday through Friday. Emails on the weekend will be responded to on the following Monday. 

5. Practice Professionalism and Netiquette Guidelines in your correspondence. Please use full sentences, proper grammar, and correct spelling. Remember this is a record of correspondence.

6. If you need immediate technical assistance you may contact AC 806-371-5000. 

ACADEMIC GRIEVANCES

A student who has a grievance concerning an academic course in which he or she is enrolled is directed to appeal in the following order:  (1) Instructor  (2)  Program Director  (3)  Dean of Health Sciences Division  (4)  Vice President of Academic Affairs and  (5) College President

Grading Criteria

Quizzes                    5%
Major Exam            40%
Competency Exam 30%
Final                        25%

All Dental Assisting courses will follow the grading scale below:

A = 93 -100
B = 83 - 92
C = 75 - 82
F = Below 75

Decimal scores from all graded activities will be rounded as follows:

0.1 - 0.4            —         rounded down

0.5 - 0.9            —         rounded up

The final course average will be rounded in the same way.

Cassie Hall, AGS, CDA, RDA  cmhall@actx.edu

Rm 129 Office Hours- Appointments Available Upon Request 

Miranda Rue, RDA, CDA m0038097@actx.edu

Rm 129 Office Hours-Appointments Available Upon Request

Jolie Vega, RDA, CDA j0107181@actx.edu

Rm 129 Office Hours-Appointments Available Upon Request

Dana Scott, BS, CDA, RDA dcscott@actx.edu

Rm 129 Office Hours-Appointments Available Upon Request

Lecture Examinations and Quizzes

Students will be given several Major Exams, Quizzes, and Competency Exams throughout the course. Exams and Quizzes will be objective in nature (true/false and multiple choice) as well as subjective (short answer, fill in the blank, and essay). The Final Exam will be objective. 

Laboratory Assignments

Students will complete several laboratory assignments throughout the course. Specific Instructions and grading rubrics will be given for each assignment and located on the grading forms. 

Competency

Students will be required to complete Competency Examinations in the Lab Clinic. These Examinations will assess the student's ability to competently provide chairside care on a manikin prior to delivering care to live patients. The following grading rubric is used for competency evaluations.

Letter grade A demonstrates a "Mastery Level" of Competence. Letter grade B demonstrates "Competence" with need for remediation. Letter grade C or below requires remediation and reassessment. 93-100=A; 83-92=B; 75-82=C

Remediation

All students are responsible for his/her own learning. The student is expected to monitor their progress, and should they have any questions or concerns, contact the instructor for assistance.  

Review and Remediation will be made available throughout the course and will be documented. The instructor can assist with identifying the need for remediation, but the student should also identify their own needs.

The student is expected to notify the instructor in a timely manner so that remediation can be provided prior to the end of the course.

For didactic remediation, the student will be required to review the content and complete either an assignment or Adaptive Quiz to demonstrate knowledge and comprehension of the content. The instructor reserves the right to allow or deny the student to retest after a failed didactic examination. In the event the student is offered the opportunity to retest, the highest grade possible will be 75.

For Lab and Clinical remediation, the student will be required to meet with an instructor. For failed Competency Evaluations, the student will be required to retest before proceeding to the next lab and clinical assignment. For retesting, the highest grade possible will be 75.

Amarillo College offers several resources for student success. If resources outside of the Dental Assisting program are needed, the student will need to seek assistance through Amarillo College Tutoring Center West Campus.

West Campus Building D Room 105 and 113

806-354-6020

Attendance

Regular attendance is necessary for satisfactory achievement of the Dental Assisting Program. Therefore, it is the responsibility of the student to attend class. Due to the amount of information contained in the course work, the student who plans to succeed should attend all lectures, labs, and clinical sessions regularly and promptly. The student will need to come to class on time, fully prepared for that session, with the necessary materials.

There is no distinction between an excused or unexcused absence. In each course, you may have up to TWO absences without it affecting your final grade. On the third absence, the final grade for the course will be reduced by 2 points. On the fourth absence, the final grade for the course will be reduced by 4 points. On the fifth absence, the overall grade will be reduced by 10 points. On the sixth absence, the student will be required to repeat the course. Attendance will be recorded at the beginning of each session. If the student is not present when attendance is taken the student is counted absent. Two bonus points will be added to the final grade for perfect attendance.

All personal appointments should be scheduled during non-instructional hours.

The student should consult a physician regarding illness. If the illness is infectious, the student must take precautions to not spread infection with Amarillo College students and staff. Examples of infectious and communicable diseases includes but is not limited to Upper Respiratory Infection, Gastroenteritis, Influenza, Conjunctivitis, Chicken Pox, Active Tuberculosis, etc. 

Students with children should have adequate and dependable arrangements for their care; have an alternate plan to follow when a child becomes ill.

In order to be fair to students who are present and perform the required tasks and because of time restraints, most missed work, especially lab and clinical work cannot be made up. Lab and clinical assignments involve the use of a partner. Without you, they cannot perform their assignments.

Missed exams maybe made up on the designated "make-up" days. In order to be fair to the students who take the exam at the scheduled time, an alternate exam with a loss of 5% of the original value will be given.

Calendar

Additional Information

The instructor reserves the right to make changes to the course calendar to meet course objectives.

Electronic and Recording Devices

Due to privacy issues and in order to create a proper learning environment, free of unnecessary distractions, all electronic devices are prohibited in this course.

This course will follow all established guidelines for cell phone use in all Dental Assisting courses. The use of cell phones is a privilege and must be treated as such. Cell Phones may be checked as designated break times. Any student that is found texting or talking on their phones during ANY part of class, clinical, or lab experience, will be asked to leave class for that day and receive a grade of ZERO for that time period. In case of an EMERGENCY situation in which cell phones are needed, they are to be used OUTSIDE the classroom. Smart watches are prohibited in the classroom, lab, and clinic.