Preventive Practices on Hepatitis B among the Stuff of Dental Faculty of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University

Abstract

Background: The study was designed to explore the preventive practices of hepatitis B among the stuff of Dental faculty of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, (BSMMU) Dhaka. Methods: This cross-sectional observational type of study was conducted at Dental department of BSMMU, Dhaka from October 2008 to March 2009. All the staff of this Department was enrolled as study population. Total 150 stuffs of the Dental faculty were selected purposively. The study was conducted through direct face to face interview using an interview schedule during the study period. Results: Out of all patients 28.3% were age group of <35 years, 30.0% were of 36 to 45 years, 30.0% of 46 to 55 years and 11.7% above 56 years age group. Male and female ratio was 3: I. Out of all staffs 33.3% were dentists, 20.0% were dental assistants and 46.7% were nurses and others. All dentists were graduated above and all dental assistants were educated up to higher secondary level. Among all nurses 35.7% were educated up to secondary level, 46.42% higher secondary and 17.86% graduate or above level. Approximately half of the dentists were engaged in the profession not more than 5 years, 27.5% for 6 to 10 years, 17.5% 11 to 15 years and 10.0% >16 years. Among dental assistants 66.67% practiced for <5 years, 33.33% for 6 to 10 years and among nurses and others 64.28% practiced for <5 years, 35.71% for 6 to 10 years. 60.8% of all dental staffs were vaccinated for HBV, out of them 97.5% were dentists, 58.33% of dental assistants and 46.42% of nurses and other dental staffs. Level of vaccination of dental staffs was significantly higher among dentists than other dental staffs. Conclusion: About sixty one percent of dental health care workers did not receive the vaccine against HBV infection. Basic barrier techniques to prevent cross­ contamination were not being used consistently. Nationwide guidelines for barrier techniques and hepatitis vaccinations should be developed and disseminated to dental ...