Infection Control · single question
Which of the following conditions, if active in the dentist, would NOT pose a transmission risk to patients during dental treatment?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: A. Conjunctivitis
- A. Conjunctivitis (pink eye): while contagious via direct contact, a dentist wearing standard PPE (gloves, mask, eye protection) creates a barrier. Some forms of conjunctivitis (bacterial) are less likely to be transmitted in dental settings with PPE. This is the least directly hazardous to patients if PPE is used properly.
- B. Active measles: HIGHLY CONTAGIOUS via respiratory droplets — dentist must NOT treat patients.
- C. Herpetic whitlow (HSV on finger): highly contagious via direct contact — dentist must NOT treat until fully healed.
- D. Active varicella zoster: HIGHLY CONTAGIOUS via respiratory/droplet — absolute contraindication to treating patients.
- E. Active mumps: contagious via saliva and respiratory droplets — dentist should not treat patients.
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