Authors: Gaffar Balgis, Khan Soban, AlBassam Bassam, Almas Khalid.
Background: Dentists are at risk for a variety of infections. With their number and diversity increasing, updated information about current practices and knowledge is required. Data evaluating infection control knowledge and attitudes is scarce; with these two being critical indicators for future practices. This study aimed to evaluate infection control knowledge, attitudes and practices of dentists in the Eastern province.
Methodology: This is a cross sectional survey-based study. A self-administered questionnaire was distributed to 108 randomly selected dentists working in the public health sector from February to May 2015. SPSS (Version 22) was used, results were presented in frequency tables and graphs and Chi square test to assess relation between variables.
Results: Only 51.9% revealed good knowledge, 91.6% showed positive infection control attitudes and 82.4% demonstrated good practices. Infection control knowledge was significantly related to attending continuous education sessions (p=0.029). Participants lacked compliance for eye protection (50.5%). Although 86.1% were vaccinated from Hepatitis B yet only (54.5%) completed the three doses. Needle stick injury was reported by 46.3% and was related to increased workload.
Conclusion: Although the study revealed positive attitudes and practices, yet infection control knowledge was deficient. Continuous infection control education sessions and an in-office protocols are recommended.
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