Knowledge and Attitudes towards Infection Control Protocols among the Students of Al-Jouf University in Saudi Arabia

Fayyaz Alam Shah, Abdulkarim Owaid Alanazi, Yunus Kassab Alrawili, Yousef Mazki Alanazi,

Knowledge and Attitudes towards Infection Control Protocols among the Students of Al-Jouf University in Saudi Arabia

Document Type : Original Article

Author

Abdulkarim Owaid Alanazi, Yunus Kassab Alrawili, Yousef Mazki Alanazi, Fayyaz Alam Shah

Al-jouf University, College of Dentistry

Abstract

Objective: The aim of the paper is to assess knowledge, attitude and practice towards infection control of dental students, in Al-Jouf University, College of Dentistry.
Materials and Methods: A questionnaire was distributed among the students and interns (n=65) of Al Jouf university, College of Dentistry, to determine their level of knowledge, attitude and practice towards infection control. A self-administered questionnaire comprising of three parts knowledge, attitude and practice towards infection control. The data was collected and statistically analyzed. Results were calculated on the basis of frequencies and percentages.
Results: In our study, we found that 97% of the students have knowledge about infection control. Only 8 % of the students disinfect the dental chair after each patient. 80 % of the students did not know that clinical waste should be discarded in specially designated and colour coded bins. 94% of the students wear examination gloves during surgical procedures. Only 8% of students change their mask after each patient and only 12% wear safety glasses during treating patients. Conclusion: The findings of this study revealed that the attitude of the dental students towards cross infection control was positive but greater compliance was needed. Knowledge and practice parameters in certain key areas were lacking. Strict adherence to the standard protocols of infection control should be implemented and continuous education to the students and staff should be provided.

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