Work-related infections in dentistry: risk perception and preventive measures

Abstract

Objectives: Evaluation of (1) the risk perception of work-related infections in dentistry, (2) the vaccination status, (3) knowledge of the blood-borne pathogens and HIV post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) as well as (4) use of personal protective equipment (PPE) (gloves, goggles, mask) among the staff and students of the Center of Dentistry and Oral Medicine (ZZMK [Carolinum]) of the Goethe University Frankfurt/Main.

Material and methods: All staff (dentists, dental assistants) and students of the ZZMK with direct contact to patients were asked to anonymously complete a questionnaire. The results of this survey were compared with respect to gender, age and occupational group.

Results: Of 178 employees working and 234 students studying at the ZZMK with direct contact to patients, 108 (61%) and 167 (71%) participated (1 person did not reveal his/her status). Thirty-three per cent of the participants assessed the risk of transmission of blood-borne diseases in dental practice as high. Whereas 94% of the participants were fully vaccinated against hepatitis B, only 21% knew their anti-HBs titer. Fifty per cent of students, 13% of dentists and 45% of the assistants did not know the standardised procedure of HIV-PEP. Ninety-four per cent of the study participants always wore protective gloves, 87% always wore a surgical mask and 67% always wore protective goggles.

Conclusions: The fear of HIV is still the largest, followed by hepatitis C. The participants assessed the risk of transmission in spite of all protective measures from the patient to the dentist significantly higher than the transmission from the dentist to the patient. The use of protective measures, especially goggles, requires further optimizing.

Clinical relevance: In general, the use of protective measures, especially goggles, requires further optimizing.

Keywords: Dental students; Healthcare worker; Occupational infections; Vaccination.