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Evaluation of a one-day AIDS continuing education course
L A Cohen1, E G Grace, L G DePaola
1Baltimore College of Dental Surgery, Dental School, University of Maryland, Baltimore 21201, USA.
MSDA Journal : Journal of the Maryland State Dental Association
|April 1, 1996
Summary
A continuing education course improved dental professionals' knowledge and practices regarding acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) and hepatitis B immunization. Six-month follow-up confirmed sustained positive outcomes in AIDS awareness and hepatitis B vaccination among dental professionals.
Area of Science:
- Dental Continuing Education
- Infectious Disease Education
- Public Health Dentistry
Background:
- Dental professionals require updated education on infectious diseases like acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS).
- Continuing education courses aim to enhance knowledge and practices regarding patient care for individuals with HIV/AIDS.
- Hepatitis B immunization is crucial for healthcare providers due to occupational exposure risks.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of a one-day continuing education course on AIDS for dentists and hygienists.
- To assess changes in knowledge, attitudes, and reported practices related to AIDS and hepatitis B.
- To determine the retention of learned information and behavioral changes at a six-month follow-up.
Main Methods:
- A pretest-posttest design with a six-month follow-up questionnaire was employed.
- Participants included dentists and hygienists attending a one-day AIDS continuing education course.
- Data collected included perceptions of patient risk, preferred treatment settings, and immunization status.
Main Results:
- A statistically significant increase in dentists' perception of patients at risk for AIDS was observed.
- A significant increase in hepatitis B immunization among respondents was noted at the six-month follow-up.
- Positive posttest results regarding AIDS patient care and hepatitis B immunization were maintained at six months.
Conclusions:
- A traditional lecture-based continuing education course can effectively enhance dental professionals' understanding and practices concerning AIDS.
- The course positively influenced perceptions of patient risk and promoted hepatitis B immunization.
- Sustained knowledge and behavioral changes support the value of such educational interventions in dental practice.