PATIENT’S PERCEPTION ABOUT CROSS-INFECTION PREVENTION IN NISHTER INSTITUTE OF DENTISTRY (NID), MULTAN, PAKISTAN

Abstract

Cross-contamination is the transmission of microbial agents from one subject to another. It can be spread from individual to individual or through infected agents. The source of cross-infection can be saliva, blood, body secretions, infected instruments with blood, and necrotic tissue debris. Every year lives are lost because of the spread of infections in hospitals becomes a serious cause of world public health issues. In this descriptive cross-sectional study, a consecutive sampling technique was applied in the periodontology department of Nishter Institute of Dentistry, Multan. 450 participants completed a questionnaire. Self-administered close-ended questionnaire in the English language was used and used local language to familiarize with the questionnaire. Results of the study revealed that 68 – 89% of the participants had a satisfactory level of knowledge about infection and infection prevention and most of them were well educated. 239 participants perceived that AIDS and Hepatitis can be transmitted during dental treatment. Regarding self-reported practice, most of the participants were aware of the fact that sterilized instruments should be used during dental treatment. 89.8% of participants stated that dentists should wear gloves and facemasks to prevent cross-infection from dentist to patient and vice versa. There was a statistically significant difference between occupation and personal protective equipment. There was enough knowledge and awareness of patients presented to the periodontology department of Nishter Institute of Dentistry regarding the infections which can spread in dental clinics like hepatitis and AIDS. There is an increased need in enhancing the awareness of the patients through social media, and also a need to provide knowledge of patients about cross-infection and how can it be prevented through educational programs both for the patients and service providers. It can also be done through awareness campaigns in different shopping places and educational institutes and public places. Key Words: Infection control guidelines, Personal protective equipment, Health care workers, World Health Organization, Centre of Disease Control