State law requires immunizations of students enrolled in health-related courses involving direct patient contact. This law applies to the Dental Assistant Program. All DA students are required to turn in immunization records prior to registering in the DA Program. These records should be turned in to the ADMISSIONS & RECORDS OFFICE OF TSTC. The immunizations required are:

1. DT (diphtheria/tetanus) – one dose within the last 10 years.
2. Measles – If born on or after Jan 1, 1957; two doses since your first birthday or proof of immunity (had disease).
3. Rubella – One dose since first birthday or proof of immunity (had disease).
4. Mumps – if born on or after Jan 1, 1957, one dose since the first birthday or proof of immunity (had disease).
5. TB (Tuberculin skin test) – one dose within the last year.

In working as a dental assistant you will be exposed to blood borne pathogens, infectious diseases and materials. These include but are not limited to, Hepatitis B virus (HBV) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) as well as human body fluids, tissues and contaminated materials. Therefore, as a student you will learn and follow the proper health and safety measures and precautions in working with patients and others.

In addition, it is highly recommended that DA students receive the Hepatitis B series. It should be started or completed before the clinical practicum course (DNTA 1466) begins.

It is the policy of TSTC not to discriminate against students who are HIV-positive. It is also the policy of the college to increase awareness and provide education to its students and employees about HIV infection and AIDS virus with the express purpose of preventing infection and limiting the consequences of infection. Copies of this policy are available in the Counseling & Testing Center and at Student Health Services.