Assessment of the Mental Attitude of Dental Students Recently Exposed to Clinical Settings for Management of COVID-19-Positive Patients in Comparison with HIV-Positive Patients

Abstract

Background: COVID-19 is an ongoing pandemic outbreak of which has brought about dynamic changes in health-care delivery systems. Dental treatment often includes direct contact with patient’s oral mucosa, blood, damaged, skin, or saliva. Therefore, the risk of exposure to viral infections is high in dental professionals. Hence, it is essential to gain an insight into dental student’s knowledge and attitude toward COVID/HIV patients. In this study, we assessed the mental attitude of dental students recently exposed to clinical settings for the management of COVID-19-positive patients in comparison with HIV-positive patients. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted using a peer-reviewed closed-ended questionnaire designed to assess the knowledge regarding HIV and COVID-19 including 11 items that were answered using a five-point Likert scale. Results: 90.59% of students agreed to statements in the questionnaire that included 11 items based on prevention and control, stigma, revision of guidelines, risk factors, transmission, and HIV with COVID-19 coinfection. 74.6% of students are aware of the probable causes of high mortality rate in patients with HIV and COVID-19 coinfection. Conclusion: With this study, we conclude that dental students newly exposed to clinical setups are well aware of the necessary precautionary measures, changed methods of treatment, and impact of both the viruses. But have an unprofessional approach towards their management. Refresher courses for practicing dentists on new infection control strategies and curriculum in dental schools should be expanded to include competencies in pandemics and disaster relief. Effective training modules should be designed and incorporated in the academics to imbibe professional attitude in young clinicians.