An Epidemiological Study to Assess Knowledge and Preventive Approaches Followed by Dental Practitioners to Avoid the Nosocomial Spread of COVID-19 with Special Emphasis on Prosthodontics Related Work.
Abstract
Aim: Since its emergence in December 2019, Corona Virus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) has gripped the entire healthcare system of the world, including the dental community. Due to the characteristics of dental settings and procedures, the risk of cross infection is quite high between patients and dental practitioners. Considering the need for various preventive measures in a clinical setup, an epidemiological study was conducted in the Department of Prosthodontics and Crown & Bridge, Indira Gandhi Government Dental College and Hospital, Jammu. This study aimed to highlight awareness regarding COVID-19 among dental practitioners and various preventive approaches followed by them in their clinical setups to prevent transmission of COVID-19 during general patient management and procedures, particularly in the context of Prosthodontics.
Materials & Methods: A self-structured questionnaire was sent to dental practitioners working in government and private set up via social media using Facebook, WhatsApp and e-mails. The responses were received through online survey submission.
Results and Conclusion: The results were statistically analyzed using SPSS version 25. It was reported that 100% of the dental practitioners were fully aware of the COVID-19 symptoms and modes of transmission and are also updated with the guidelines by concerned authorities. Most dentists used adequate precautions in the form of PPE, face masks, oral antimicrobial rinses, and disinfectants for surfaces and clinical areas.
Clinical significance: This survey has provided significant data related to management protocols and specific preventive measures that can be implemented during an outbreak of such infectious disease in future.
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