10 Must-Know Topics for the DANB ICE Exam
10 Must-Know Topics for the DANB ICE Exam
1. Standard Precautions & PPE
Correct order for donning and doffing PPE (gloves, masks, eyewear, gowns).
When each type of PPE must be used.
Hand hygiene protocols.
2. Sterilization Methods
Autoclave (steam sterilization) times, pressures, and temperatures.
Dry heat and chemical vapor sterilization.
Biological indicators and spore testing for sterilizer effectiveness.
3. Disinfection and Surface Barriers
High-level vs. intermediate vs. low-level disinfectants.
How to properly disinfect operatories between patients.
Use of surface barriers vs. chemical disinfection.
4. Instrument Processing Workflow
Transporting contaminated instruments safely.
Ultrasonic cleaning vs. hand scrubbing.
Packaging and storing sterilized instruments.
5. OSHA Standards
Bloodborne Pathogens Standard.
Hazard Communication Standard (chemical labeling, SDS sheets).
Requirements for training and documentation.
6. CDC Guidelines
CDC infection control guidelines for dental healthcare settings.
Recommendations for sharps disposal and post-exposure protocols.
7. Disease Transmission
Direct, indirect, droplet, and airborne transmission routes.
Chain of infection and how to break it.
Common pathogens in dental settings (HBV, HCV, HIV, TB).
8. Waste Management
Biomedical waste vs. regular trash.
Disposal of sharps, blood-soaked materials, and chemical waste.
Labeling and storage of hazardous materials.
9. Dental Unit Waterlines (DUWLs)
How microbial biofilm forms in waterlines.
Flushing protocols and treatment options to keep waterlines safe.
Testing requirements for water quality.
10. Occupational Safety & Exposure Control
Needlestick prevention strategies.
Post-exposure procedures (immediate steps, reporting, follow-up).
Vaccination recommendations for dental assistants (e.g., Hepatitis B).
✅ How to Use This Checklist
Print it out and use it as a daily review guide.
Pair each topic with practice questions (DALE Foundation, Mometrix, or Quizlet).
Prioritize OSHA/CDC standards and sterilization protocols — these make up a large chunk of the exam.
Review each section until you can explain it out loud step by step, not just recognize multiple-choice answers.
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