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Four-handed zones: left-handed operator
Also called: left-handed clock positions
For a left-handed operator the zones are mirrored to the other side.
When the operator is left-handed, everything flips. The operator works from 12 to 5 o'clock, the static zone is 10 to 12, the assistant's zone is 8 to 10, and the transfer zone is 5 to 8. The assistant passes with the right hand.
How to spot it
- Operator on the patient's left side; assistant on the patient's right.
On the tray, in order
- Instrument exchanges happen in the transfer zone (5-8), below the chin.
- Tray setup may be mirrored; check how your office arranges it.
Safety and care
- Never pass instruments over the patient's face.
Related
Sources: Dentalcare.com CE643. The Concepts of Four-handed Dentistry Including Ergonomic Instrument Transfer. Pages: zones of activity, single-handed transfer, two-handed transfer, scissors/hinged instruments, syringe transfer, non-locking forceps, Osmosis (Elsevier). Chairside positioning and instrument transfer: Dental assisting