Experience and attitudes regarding requirements for magnification and coaxial illumination among dental hygiene...

Purpose: Dental professionals are at elevated risks for the development of musculoskeletal disorders due to the occupational demands of static postures and precision movements required for instrumentation. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the experiences and attitudes regarding the requirements of purchasing and utilizing magnification loupes and coaxial illumination for patient care among dental hygiene students with the state of Ohio.Methods: A cross-sectional, web-based, anonymous survey was sent via the dental hygiene program directors to dental hygiene students in the state of Ohio. Descriptive statistics were used to describe the dental hygiene students' experience with magnification loupes and coaxial illumination.Results: A total of 123 students (n=123) participated in the study representing a response rate of 36.2%. Most respondents used magnification loupes (89.4%, n=110) and coaxial illumination (84.5%, n=105) while delivering patient care. Respondents who were required to purchase magnification loupes were more likely to feel that dental hygiene students (X²(1)=37.735, p<.001) and dental hygiene faculty (X²(1)=38.256, p<.001) should be required to purchase magnification loupes. Respondents who were not required to purchase their magnification loupes felt that loupes increased the accuracy of assessments and procedures (U=1376.00, p<.01) and increased the efficiency of providing care (U=1327.00, p<.001). Students who were required to purchase coaxial illumination were more likely to feel that dental hygiene students (X²(1)=10.809, p<.001) and dental hygiene faculty (X²(1)=6.796, p<.01) should be required to purchase illumination.Conclusion: When considering student purchasing requirements for magnification loupes and coaxial illumination, the attitudes of dental hygiene students towards their utilization and benefits should be considered.