Klickitat Valley Health is accepting applications for part-time Dental Assistant to join the Dental Clinic. This part-time core position offers 16 hours a week.

This part-time core position offers Paid Time Off accrual and retirement plan contributions.

Klickitat Valley Health is a rural, critical-access hospital located in scenic Goldendale, Washington only two hours from Portland along the breathtaking Columbia River Gorge. KVH offers emergency and acute inpatient care and a full scope of ancillary services including General Surgery, Diagnostic Imaging, Laboratory, Respiratory Therapy, PT / OT, Behavioral Health, Dental, Pain Management and Hospice. The hospital also owns a busy, well-established primary clinic that is located on hospital campus. Inpatient care is managed by 24/7 Hospitalist staff. KVH employs over 300 staff.

General Summary:

The Dental Assistant is one who is registered by the State of Washington to perform duties under RCW 18.260.040 and WAC 246-817-520 such as: preparing the patient for treatment, assisting the dentist or hygienist in performing their treatment of the patient, preparing materials, rooms and equipment for treatment; sterilization of instruments; taking x-rays; and assisting with laboratory work. The Dental Assistant may also perform administrative responsibilities such as inventory management, ordering, and scheduling. The Assistant provides each patient with gentle, personalized care to ensure they have an exceptional experience.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Minimum Education, Training & Experience (includes licenses or certifications):

Education:

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Graduate of Dental Assisting program or 3 years dental assisting experience

Licenses / Certifications:

• Registration as a Dental Assistant through the State of Washington, or ability to obtain within 60 days of offer
• Expanded Auxiliary Endorsement by State of Washington preferred
• Current BLS (Basic Life Support)

Skills/Knowledge/Abilities:

• Ability to read, write and communicate effectively in English; additional languages preferred
• Ability to perform basic algebraic mathematical equations required of position
• Comprehensive knowledge of dental instrumentation and materials
• Keen attention to detail and high level of accuracy
• Requires excellent interpersonal skills including the ability to anticipate and calm patients that may be anxious about their dental treatment; treat each patient as a valued customer.
• Ability to problem-solve and generate creative solutions
• Efficiency-minded and able to handle multiple tasks with limited instruction
• Ability to communicate apply safety measures appropriate to the patient's age and development
• Uses reference material when appropriate to better meet the requirements of individuals of different needs and development
• Ability to follow HIPAA policies to maintain the privacy and security of patient information
• Familiarity with electronic medical records and ability to accurately chart patient information
• Proficiency with typing and use of everyday technology such as multi-line phone systems, internet, e-mail, and basic software programs such as Microsoft Word and Excel.

GENERAL ACCOUNTABILITIES AND ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Greets patients in the waiting area and escorts them to and from the operatory
• Obtains necessary forms and signatures from patient
• Reviews and records medical/dental history and takes vital signs of patients as needed
• Accurately charts patient information in the electronic medical record
• Reviews daily schedule to set up appropriate trays and instruments
• Chair side 4 handed dentistry and prepare dental materials for procedure
• Assists with various procedures, which include but are not limited to charting, taking and pouring of impressions and other chair side duties
• Assists the dentist in the administration of treatment at the chair side as required or directed by the dentist
• Provides assistance to the Dental Clinic, front and back office, as determined by the Dentist, Manager, or Dental Provider based on changing patient flow and clinic needs
• Explains dental treatment, post op instructions or procedures to the patient
• Promotes an atmosphere supportive of good dental and general health by demonstrating good oral hygiene, questioning patients to ascertain home care status, instructing patients in techniques of flossing and brushing in accordance with protocol
• Maintain a sterile and neat working environment
• Prepares instruments, rooms and materials; clean/sterilizes and maintains functioning instruments and equipment; prepares inventory on equipment and dental supplies; stocks operatories and necessary dental supplies; disinfect hard surfaces
• Takes and develops necessary x-rays per protocol
• Relays important information to the Dentist or other dental clinic staff as appropriate and necessary
• May perform administrative duties including but not limited to scheduling, ordering, and inventory management.
• Consistent use of Personal Protective Equipment and following safety protocols to ensure the safety of patients and staff.
• Other duties as assigned.