Knowledge and attitudes of emergency medicine physicians and nurses regarding emergency management of dentofacial trauma in pediatric patients

Abstract

ObjectivesConsidering that the first visit for dentofacial trauma is generally in emergency departments, the awareness and knowledge of the emergency medicine staff regarding the treatment of dentofacial injuries is very important for the prognosis. The aim of this study was to investigate the knowledge, education, and self-confidence levels of emergency medicine physicians and nurses concerning the diagnosis and treatment of dentofacial traumatic injuries in pediatric patients. MethodsThis questionnaire-based, cross-sectional study included emergency medicine physicians and emergency medicine nurses. The survey contained questions and three sections on participants’ general data, attitudes, basic knowledge, and confidence levels in managing dentofacial trauma. ResultsA total of 407 participants (250 emergency medicine physicians and 157 emergency medicine nurses) were included in this study. There was a significant difference between the groups regarding the correct answers to the questions about trauma management and emergency management of crown fractures and avulsed permanent teeth (p <0.05). ConclusionOur findings show that there is a lack of information on dentofacial trauma for emergency medicine physicians and nurses. In order to increase knowledge in this area and to improve the diagnosis and management of dentofacial trauma, interdisciplinary seminars, case discussions, and continuing education programs should be held for emergency medicine staff.