To what extent do dental students comply with infection control practices?

Abstract

Aim

This study was conducted to evaluate knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding infection control measures among dental students at the College of Dentistry, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Methods

A self-administrated English-language questionnaire with questions related to hepatitis B vaccination and serology, the use of personal protective equipment, infection control practices and awareness, percutaneous and mucous membrane exposure, and attitudes toward the dental treatment of infected patients was distributed to third-fifth-year dental students. Responses were analyzed using SPSS, with a significance level of p < 0.05.

Results

The response rate was 83.4% (n = 303). Most (95.4%) students had received hepatitis B virus vaccination, but only 61.4% had completed the three doses, with a significant difference among academic years (p = 0.000). Almost all students always used gloves (99.3%), masks (98.7%), and gowns (95%) while treating patients. Fewer students always used face shields (69.6%) and head caps (65%), with significant differences between males and females. About two-thirds (65%) of participants reported injury with a used instrument; such injury was significantly more common among fifth-year students (p = 0.041). The most frequently reported injuries were caused by needles and burs (21.1%). Male students were significantly more willing than female students to treat patients with infectious diseases.

Conclusion

The dental students surveyed in this study showed satisfactory knowledge and positive attitudes regarding infection control. More effort is needed to provide proper training in ideal infection control measures for undergraduate students.