When are gloves required by the OSDB?

In the context of infection control and safety standards established by organizations such as the OSDB (Oklahoma State Dental Board), gloves are required in various situations to protect both the patient and the dental professional from the transmission of infectious agents.

When working on a patient, the use of gloves is essential during any procedure to maintain a sterile environment and prevent contamination. This requirement extends to situations involving direct contact with a patient’s oral cavity, tissues, or bodily fluids.

Cleaning up the operatory after procedures is another situation in which gloves are mandated. During cleanup, dental professionals may encounter blood, saliva, or other potentially infectious materials, necessitating the use of gloves to ensure personal protection and maintain hygiene standards.

Taking impressions also requires the use of gloves. This procedure often involves direct contact with the patient's mouth and materials that may come into contact with biological substances, where gloves serve as a barrier to protect against infection.

Thus, gloves are required in all of the instances mentioned, making the response comprehensively correct. The emphasis on glove usage in these scenarios aligns with best practices for infection control in the dental setting.