engleski

Needle sticks injuries among dental students and dentists: knowledge, attitude, and practice

Aim: Risk of exposure to blood-borne pathogens has always been a problem for dental professionals. The aim of this study was to assess the level of knowledge and practice of needle stick injuries and other accidental exposures, and to estimate the incidence of them among Croatian dental students and dentists. Materials and Methods: Cross- sectional survey was conducted among 419 dentists, and 311 dental students. The data were recorded on a structured on-line questionnaire to elicit the level of knowledge ; awareness and practice towards practice needle stick incidents injuries and other accidental exposures. Results: Dentists who knew the post exposure prophylactic measures had a lover incidence of practice needle stick injuries and other accidental exposures incidents (121 vs. 101, P = 0, 001), and more often reported them (20 vs. 9, P = 0, 016). Senior students had a higher incidence of exposure incidents (13, 32 vs. 34, P = 0, 009), and those who have the habit of recapping the needle (77 vs. 2, P = 0, 021). Conclusion: The results of this study confirmed that dentists and dental students experience more needle stick incidents and other accidental exposures than the reported number. Therefore, emphasis should be placed on training and knowledge of pre- exposure and post-exposure preventive measures among dental practitioners.

needle sticks injuries ; dental students ; dentists

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