What can you do about it?
1. Communication
Let the clinician that you are working with know that you are a lefty so that they are aware of why you would be passing and holding instruments differently.
If you are on a double lefty day (left-handed clinician too) ask them if they would be happy to adjust the dental chair to a left-handed set up, which will help you both work comfortably and prevent both of you squeezing to the left of the patient.
2. Don’t let them assume every lefty is the same
You might know other lefties and through conversations you may have discovered that they may be doing lots more with their left hand or some may only rely on their left hand for a couple of activities. So inform them about this and help them learn about how you operate
3. Spread the word about being a lefty
Talking about increased awareness and working with left- handed nurses can become easier the more we know about it. If you have some tips on how to work easier with your clinician share them with others too. Help others to also work more efficiently and reduce the awkward encounters that arise from lack of knowledge on how to adapt when working with a lefty.