May 12, 2020 | Issue 41
Updates to List of Non-NIOSH Approved Respirators
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is now requiring respirators manufactured in China to be accredited and independent lab tested to be part of the Emergency Use Authorization (EUA)  Non-NIOSH Approved Respirators Manufactured in China  list. Due to these new requirements, the list now contains 14 KN95 China-based manufacturers. In a  letter  to healthcare providers, the FDA explained the respirators removed from the list “failed to demonstrate a minimum particulate filtration efficiency of 95 percent in testing conducted at the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH).” Respirators removed from the list may no longer be marketed or distributed as respirators in the U.S.

What should you do if you have purchased KN95 masks that are no longer on the FDA list? According to the  IDB Guidelines for the Safe Transition Back to Practice FAQ #2 , IDB recommends using your professional judgment and act in good faith. If you feel the product you have is reputable, and from a reputable supplier, you may use it.
Results Show Dental Offices in Early Stage of Recovery
The ADA Health Policy Institute continues to conduct polling of dental offices. During the week of May 4, it found that 30 percent of all dental offices had reopened nation-wide. The  May 4 poll  included questions regarding how many days’ worth of PPE offices have on hand. PPE and equipment resources are available on the  IDA website , and this list is updated regularly as we identify new sources. Due to the changing requirements and the increased number of counterfeit masks on the market, IDA recommends offices contact their dental suppliers regarding N95 and level 3 masks. Your dental supply company may be able to provide you with suggestions for acceptable PPE.
Resources Available to Those Dealing with Substance Abuse and Mental Health Concerns
The COVID-19 pandemic has taken a mental and physical toll on many Iowans. If the stress and uncertainty of today’s environment have led to substance abuse or mental health concerns that are affecting your ability to practice safely, the Iowa Practitioner Program (IPP) is available to assist you. IPP is a self-reporting, confidential monitoring program through the Iowa Dental Board. For more information about the IPP, contact  Angela Davidson  at 515.281.0997.
Mental Health Basics for Dentistry Available On-Demand
Treating all patients in a way that makes them feel comfortable and safe is a top priority for dental professionals, but not all patients have the same needs. Elizabeth Worsham, MD, addresses the most common types of mental health disorders that you may see in your practice in her free webinar, now available on-demand. Upon viewing the webinar and submitting the quick verification survey, you will earn two CEUs and be better equipped to provide treatment and establish trust.
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