CDA study plan

Sequence the eight steps of instrument processing from point-of-use to sterile storage, and state the CDC/OSHA rationale for each.

List the required PPE for every clinical task category (surgery, radiography, lab, disinfection) and match each to a specific barrier item.

Differentiate handwashing, antiseptic handwash, and alcohol-based hand rub by indication and contact time.

Explain the chain of infection and name one break-point intervention the assistant controls at each link.

Identify the three sterilization monitoring methods (mechanical, chemical, biological) and state the correct frequency and response for a failed biological indicator.

Contrast low-, intermediate-, and high-level disinfection and classify 10 given surfaces/items into the correct category.

Distinguish disinfection from sterilization for items such as burs, handpieces, impression trays, and radiographic sensors.

Outline the post-exposure management protocol for a sharps injury, including immediate steps, reporting, and source-patient testing considerations.

Describe dental unit waterline maintenance and the rationale for flushing lines and monitoring microbial counts.

Sort regulated and non-regulated waste streams and identify handling requirements for each.

Identify 25 common hand instruments and rotary burs by name, use, and correct transfer position.

Demonstrate single-handed and two-handed instrument transfer sequences and explain the fulcrum and vision requirements for each.

Select the appropriate moisture-control device (HVE, saliva ejector, isolation) for a given quadrant and procedure.

Describe placement and removal of matrices, wedges, and retainers for Class II and Class III restorations.

Record a complete set of vital signs and chart existing conditions using standard tooth-numbering and charting notation.

Classify dental materials by category (amalgam, composite, glass ionomer, cements, gypsum, impression materials, gypsum-based lab products) and state one clinical use for each.

State the correct mixing ratios, setting reactions, and handling precautions for alginate, elastomeric impression material, and zinc oxide-eugenol type cements.

Sequence the assistant's steps for a composite restoration, from shade selection through light-curing and finishing.

Describe fabrication and cementation steps for a provisional crown, including occlusal and marginal checks.

Explain the assistant's role in a medical emergency, including oxygen delivery, vital sign monitoring, and documentation.

Explain the production of x-rays and identify the components of the tubehead and control panel by function.

Apply the ALARA principle by listing the specific patient and operator protection measures used for each exposure type.

Distinguish bitewing, periapical, and occlusal receptor placements by indication and describe correct placement technique for each.

Match common exposure and processing errors (cone cut, elongation, foreshortening, overlapping, light image, herringbone artifact) to their causes and corrections.

State the legal and ethical boundaries of the assistant's role in radiography, including who may prescribe, expose, and interpret.

Identify anatomical landmarks and radiolucent/radiopaque structures visible on maxillary and mandibular images, including the zygomatic process, mandibular canal, and maxillary sinus.

Describe receptor handling for both film and digital sensors, including infection control barriers and sensor care.

Outline a quality assurance schedule for radiographic equipment, including dosimetry badge use and recordkeeping.

Explain radiation biology concepts at the level needed to justify dose reduction: dose-response, radiosensitivity of tissues, and cumulative effect.

Sequence the mounting and labeling steps that ensure correct patient, date, and orientation identification.

Integrate infection control into chairside procedures by scripting the setup and breakdown for a composite restoration and a surgical extraction.

Resolve 15 scenario questions that combine chairside technique with asepsis decisions, such as handling a contaminated instrument mid-procedure.

Re-teach your two weakest Infection Control goals from weeks 1–2 in writing, using your own examples.

Re-teach your two weakest Chairside goals from weeks 3–4 in writing, using your own examples.

Complete a full-length timed practice set spanning all three domains and analyze every missed item by root cause.

Convert each missed item into a one-line fact card and review the accumulated card deck until recall is automatic.

Rehearse the highest-yield safety rules (exposure reduction, sterilization monitoring, post-exposure steps) until each can be recited in under 30 seconds.

Confirm exam-day logistics: appointment time, required identification, and test-center or remote-proctoring requirements.