Naderi Khorshidi A, Naghibi Sistani M M, Seyedmajidi S, Moradi M. Assessment of patients’ awareness regarding infection control principles in dental treatments. J Dent Med-tums 2025; 38 : 29
URL:
http://jdm.tums.ac.ir/article-1-6378-en.html
1- Student Research Committee, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
2- Oral Health Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
3- Dental Materials Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
Abstract: (349 Views)
Background and aims: Dental procedures carry a significant risk of transmitting viral and bacterial infections to both patients and healthcare personnel. Patients' awareness of infection control principles can play a crucial role in improving the safety of the clinical environment and promoting public health. This study aimed to assess the level of patients’ awareness regarding infection control principles in dental treatments.
Materials and Methods: This descriptive-analytical cross-sectional study was conducted in 2022 on 390 patients attending the Dental School Clinic of Babol University of Medical Sciences, Iran. Data were collected using a validated questionnaire consisting of 24 items related to infection control. Each correct answer was awarded one point. The total score and awareness level of participants were analyzed based on the gender, age group, educational level, and number of dental visits using independent samples t-test, chi-square test, and ANOVA in SPSS, with a significance level set at 0.05.
Results: The mean age of patients was 33.89 ± 13.24 years and 62.8% were female. The mean awareness score was 18.37 ± 3.21. A total of 76.4% of participants demonstrated a good level of awareness. The awareness mean score was higher in female than male patients (P=0.006). A statistically significant difference was observed in mean awareness scores educational level (P<0.001) and age group (P=0.01). However, no significant difference was found based on the number of dental visits (P=0.867).
Conclusion: Although, the overall level of patient awareness regarding infection control principles was acceptable, gaps remain in certain areas. The implementation of targeted educational programs is recommended to enhance patients’ awareness and to promote infection control practices in dental treatment settings.
Article number: 29
Type of Study:
Research |
Subject:
general