You already know that the DALS® (Dental Advanced Life Support) course offered by DOCS Education prepares you to handle an emergency that may arise in your operatory, but did you also know the skills you take with you are applicable in your day-to-day life? DOCS faculty member, John Bovia, received this email describing the benefits of DALS® beyond the practice setting:

I was in the 2.5 day DALS® course in Atlanta recently. I wanted you to know that I thought you did an excellent job. I have never had to use any of my previous training in a real-life situation until today. Immediately after church a woman in attendance started having severe chest pain and breathing problems. I happened to walk by and notice what was going on when her husband told me that she had recently had a heart attack. I assessed the situation and found that she had tachycardia. I sent for the medical equipment, which was limited, and they had already called for 911. The woman had just taken a nitroglycerine tab. I put her on oxygen and sat her up to where she was comfortable. The people there wanted to attach an AED, until I politely told them that wasn’t needed unless she was non-responsive and in vfib. I calmed her down as she was very scared. By the time paramedics got there her pulse rate was down significantly and she was feeling somewhat better as they transported her to the ER.
I know that I didn’t save this woman's life, but it made me realize just how important the material DOCS Education teaches really is. Prior to the course I honestly wouldn’t have had much of a clue as to what to do other than call 911. I have had BLS every two years since graduating from dental school, but that would not have helped much in this particular situation. In fact, I only took the DALS® course because it was required by my state (TN) for my sedation license. However, I received so much more than I ever imagined. I am extremely grateful that you take your work very seriously.

Sincerely, Matthew P. McMasters, DDS Pulaski, TN

We offer a heartfelt thanks to Dr. McMasters for his diligence in assisting this woman as well as his kind words about DOCS and the DALS® course.

issue_no
1
The information contained in this, or any case study post in Incisor, should never be considered a proper replacement for necessary training and/or education regarding adult oral conscious sedation. Regulations regarding sedation vary by state. This is an educational and informational piece. DOCS Education accepts no liability whatsoever for any damages resulting from any direct or indirect recipient's use of or failure to use any of the information contained herein. DOCS Education would be happy to answer any questions or concerns mailed to us at 3250 Airport Way S, Suite 701 | Seattle, WA 98134. Please print a copy of this posting and include it with your question or request.
DOCS Membership

Upcoming Events
Streaming
May 17- 18, 2024
Atlanta, GA skyline
GA
August 23- 24, 2024
Streaming
October 04- 05, 2024

More Articles