Knowledge, attitude and practice for a group of Egyptian interns about infection control in different pediatric dental clinics: a cross-sectional study

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Master student (MSc.) of Pediatric Dentistry and Dental Public Health Department, Faculty of Dentistry, Cairo University

2 Professor of Pediatric Dentistry and Dental Public Health, Faculty of Dentistry, Cairo University.

3 Associate Professor of Pediatric Dentistry and Dental Public Health, Faculty of Dentistry, Cairo University

Abstract

Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the knowledge, attitude, and practice of pediatric dentistry interns regarding infection control procedures. Methodology: A printed questionnaire was handed to 400 interns in the department which was composed of two demographic data questions, 14 for knowledge, 6 regarding attitude, and 33 concerning practice. Results: The majority had good knowledge of cross-infection, 54% knew Hepatitis B virus has the highest rate of transmission via saliva, while only 29.5% and 13.25% knew tuberculosis and Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome carry the same risk. Also, 43.75% knew immediate action in case of direct blood contact with a Human Immunodeficiency Virus patient. The attitude section showed that 83% had a good attitude toward methods of infection prevention, 86.75% were worried about exposure to Human Immunodeficiency Virus patients, and 35.75% believed they had the right to refuse to treat that patient. Concerning practice, 69.25% always washed hands, 12.5% used face masks and gloves, 3.5% wore protective eyewear, and 7.75% wore protective clothing. However, 81.5% claimed using all protective equipment. Less than half always used rubber dam sheets and occasionally used high-volume evacuators. Overall, 6.25% had good knowledge, 24.5% had a positive attitude, and 31% had good practice. Conclusions: Knowledge is poor, attitude is positive, and practice is good but not as per standards

Keywords

Main Subjects

Egyptian Dental Journal
Volume 70, Issue 4 - Serial Number 1
October (Orthodontics, Pediatric & Preventive Dentistry)
October 2024
Pages 3117-3140

Files

Share

How to cite

Statistics