Evaluation of Infection Control Knowledge Attitude and Practices Among a Group of Egyptian Postgraduate Dental Students

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Professor in Faculty of Dentistry / Cairo University

2 Associate Professor, Pediatric dentistry and Dental Public Health Department, Faculty of Dentistry, Cairo University

Abstract

PURPOSE: This study aimed to evaluate of knowledge, attitude, and practice regarding the recommended infection control measures among postgraduate students in several dental schools. SUBJECTS & METHODS: A cross sectional study was conducted among a group of postgraduate students in Cairo University using a self-administered questionnaire to evaluate their level of knowledge attitude, and practice regarding infection control measures. RESULTS: The response rate was 96%. Interesting areas were: Only 40% of the sample could describe the proper method of hands washing. Moving around while wearing face masks and protective gowns was reported by 32% and 28% of the sample, respectively. Data also showed that only 48% of the students had been vaccinated with required vaccines. Unfortunately, only 24% of sample displayed correct knowledge about the infections with the highest risk of transmission in the dental setting, whereas 90% knew how to handle an accidental needle prick. The overall data showed that the mean knowledge was 63.72%, attitude was 50.52% and practice was 60.42%. Knowledge scores ranged from 6-12/14; attitude scores were from 3-11/11 and finally practice scores from 2-9/10. CONCLUSIONS: This study revealed inadequate levels of knowledge, attitude, and practices toward infection control and that more training in both educational and practical fields is highly recommended.

Keywords

Egyptian Dental Journal
Volume 67, Issue 3 - Serial Number 1
July (Orthodontics, Pediatric & Preventive Dentistry)
July 2021
Pages 1819-1826

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