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Delivery unit
Also called: delivery system, unit, doctor's cart
The control unit that holds the handpieces, air-water syringe and their hoses.
The delivery unit holds the tools that run on air and water: handpieces (drills), the air-water syringe and sometimes the ultrasonic scaler and curing light. It can be mounted behind the patient's head (rear delivery), to the side (side delivery), over the patient's chest (over-the-patient) or on a mobile cart. Each style changes who can reach the tools easily.
How to spot it
- A tray or panel with several hanging hoses and holders, plus controls or a small screen.
- Often a foot control on the floor for the handpieces.
What it is used for
- Set up handpieces and the syringe tip for each patient.
- Run water and air through each handpiece and the syringe for 20 to 30 seconds after each patient.
Safety and care
- Hoses, handles and switches get barriers or are cleaned and disinfected between patients.
- Follow the manufacturer's instructions for daily waterline treatment and care.
Related
Sources: Dental Economics. Delivery systems: Which one is right for you?, CDC. Guidelines for Infection Control in Dental Health-Care Settings, 2003. MMWR 2003;52(RR-17)