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In This Issue by Trisha O’Hehir, RDH, MS Editorial Director, Hygienetown

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Caring for Yourself

by Trisha O’Hehir, RDH, MS Editorial Director, Hygienetown

“If cabin pressure should change, panels above your seat will open revealing oxygen masks; reach up and pull a mask toward you. Place it over your nose and mouth, and secure with the elastic band, that can be adjusted to ensure a snug fit. The plastic bag will not fully inflate, although oxygen is flowing. Secure your own mask first before helping others.”

This pre-flight safety demonstration, as dictated by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), is an announcement you’ve heard many times when flying. The last sentence can also apply to dental clinicians, “Secure your own mask first before helping others.”

Take care of yourself before taking care of your patients. If clinicians ignore their own health and warning signals that the body is not happy, providing patient care will become more difficult and in some cases, impossible due to injury. Listen to your body. Pain is not normal. At the first sign your body is not happy with your working position, it will “whisper in your ear” with a tight muscle or stiff neck. If you don’t pay attention, the body will “tap you on the shoulder” with more pain and discomfort. If you don’t heed these warning messages from your body, it will “break your arm.” The final message might just put you out of work, definitely getting your attention.

The warning signs might be physical or mental, everything from neck pain to burnout. Dental clinicians take great care of their own oral health, but what about the rest of the body? Diet, nutrition, sleep and exercise are all important elements of health. Working smarter chairside means using magnification, light, sharp instruments and the right chair or stool. Taking time for yourself throughout your working day with stretch breaks and healthy snacks will do a lot to enhance your career and your longevity, happiness and success in that career. When your dedication to patient care leads to aches, pains or burnout, remember to “secure your own mask first before helping others.”
Inside This Section
2      Landing a Great Dental Hygiene Job
4      Perio Reports
8      Profile in Oral Health: Caring for the Clinician: Are You Well and Happy?
12    Message Board: Burnout
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