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Infection control practices across Canada: do dentists follow the recommendations?
G M McCarthy1, J J Koval, M A John
1School of Dentistry, Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of Western Ontario, Canada.
Journal (Canadian Dental Association)
|November 24, 1999
Summary
Dentists show varied compliance with infection control practices across Canadian provinces. Enhancing continuing education on infection control may improve adherence to recommended procedures.
Area of Science:
- Dental Public Health
- Infection Prevention and Control
Background:
- Infection control is critical in dentistry to prevent disease transmission.
- Provincial and territorial variations in compliance may exist.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess dentists' adherence to infection control recommendations in Canada.
- To identify factors influencing compliance with infection control practices.
Main Methods:
- A national survey of 6,444 dentists was conducted, with a 66.4% response rate.
- Data were analyzed using Pearson's chi-square test and multiple logistic regression.
Main Results:
- Significant provincial/territorial differences were found in 18 infection control procedures.
- Excellent compliance (18/18 procedures) was low, ranging from 0% to 10%.
- Higher continuing education hours, urban practice location, and female dentists predicted better compliance.
Conclusions:
- Improvements in dental infection control are needed nationwide.
- Mandatory continuing education in infection control could enhance compliance.