Risk Management

• What should you do immediately after noticing the missing tip of the Gracey curette?

  Stop treatment and explain to the patient
• Why is it important to apologize to the patient when a tool is missing?

  It maintains trust and transparency with the patient
• How would you reassure the patient after the incident?

  Calm and reassure them that it will be handled
• What should you check before starting treatment to avoid equipment issues?

  Ensure all equipment is in good condition
• What is the first step you should take if you notice the tip is missing during treatment?

  Look in the patient's mouth for the tip
• Why is it important to ask your nurse to help look for the missing tip?

  It increases the chances of finding the tip quickly
• If you can see the tip of the curette, how should you remove it?

  Use gauze or tweezers to remove it
• What should you do if the tip is not visible in the patient's mouth?

  Examine and palpitate the area for the tip
• How would you proceed if you palpitate the area and find the tip?

  Remove it with forceps or gauze
• What should you do if the tip is still not found after searching the mouth?

  Have the patient rinse and check the bowl
• Why is it important to check the water lines and filter during this incident?

  It may have been taken up by the suction
• What should you do if the tip is not found after checking the mouth and suction?

  Perform a PA radiograph of the pocket
• What should you inform the patient if the tip is found?

  Explain the options available for its removal
• What should you do if the tip is still not found after all checks?

  The patient must go to A&E
• What is the final step after managing the missing tip incident?

  Write up everything in patient notes