Top tips for a newly qualified dental nurse

We are very fortunate to have amazing dental nurses working with us; all at different stages of their dental career; progressing well through their apprenticeship, some recently qualified and others with vast experience, meaning we have a great balance of knowledge and they provide different insights into the role.

Once qualified, it is important that dental nurses focus on development personally and within the practice.

1. Embrace Lifelong Learning: It is important to keep learning new skills and working on development in your role. Make sure, if you have the opportunity, to attend dental works shops, face to face CPD, extra online courses you could do, as staying up to date with CPD and with the latest dental developments is imperative. Continuous learning will only help you exceed more in your job role.
2. Develop Strong Communication Skills and Go the Extra Mile: Effective communication with patients, colleagues, and administrative staff is crucial. Be empathetic, clear, and attentive to ensure smooth interactions and optimal patient care.

   There are many roles and responsibilities of being a dental nurse but going above and beyond actively shows that you are improving the patients experience and looking out for other staff members. An example of going above and beyond for patients would be spending more time with them in the surgery or reception, listening to their concerns, giving them support and advice. By spending just that little time with the patients can change their whole experience.

3. Master Time Management: Prioritize tasks, stay organized, and plan ahead to handle the fast-paced environment efficiently. Efficient time management ensures a smooth workflow and reduces stress. This includes at the start of your day to ensure you have all the equipment in your surgery ready for the day, and checking your day lists before seeing patients. Planning when you are able to process your instruments through is another example of this, as if you had treatment in all morning, handpieces and equipment will most likely need to be processed.
4. Adhere to Infection Control Protocols and Focus on the 9 GDC Principles: Always follow strict infection control protocols to maintain a safe environment for both patients and staff. Proper sterilization of instruments and wearing appropriate PPE are essential practices.

   Never stop following the 9 GDC principles and always proceed to follow them every day in your practice. These principles guide you with progression of your job role of being a dental nurse.

5. Cultivate a Patient-Centric Approach: Ensure patients feel comfortable and well-cared for by being attentive, maintaining a calming presence, and following up post-treatment.
6. Learn from the Best: Observing senior dental nurses and other more experienced dental professionals can enhance your skills within your role. Everyone at the workplace in dentistry are happy to help and support you.

Starting your career as a dental nurse is an exciting journey filled with opportunities for growth. By embracing learning, focusing on effective communication, prioritising time management, ensure infection control remains at the forefront, and enhance the patient care experience, you’ll excel in your role and make a positive impact in your practice.

I am on that journey as a Dental Nurse, and can’t wait to see what the future holds. Sienna Park.