Original Article

Year : 2019 | Volume : 4 | Issue : 2 | Page : 19 - 22

A Survey on Evaluation of Preparedness for Medical Emergencies at the Dental Office

H. Soniya, Manju

Thai Moogambigai Dental College and Hospital, Mogappair, Tamil Nadu, India

Address for correspondence:

Dr. H. Soniya,

Thai Moogambigai Dental College and Hospital, Mogappair, Tamil Nadu, India.

E-mail: Soniyahari2228@gmail.com

Abstract

Introduction:

Medical emergencies can occur at any time in the dental office. Every health care provider should be aware of recognizing and handling medical emergencies in their respective workplace. All should be trained and frequently updated regarding aiding patient in emergency situations. The aim of this study is to determine the knowledge and preparedness of a dental practitioner to manage medical emergencies at their dental office.

Materials and Methods:

A self-administered questionnaire comprising of 10 questions was designed relating to medical emergencies that may occur in dental office, its prevention, and management and was distributed to the practicing dentists in and around Chennai.

Results:

A total of 150 dentists participated in this study. Of these, 48 were BDS graduates and 102 were MDS graduates. Almost 134 have their working place in urban areas, 12 of them have working place in rural areas and 4 of them have their working place in both urban and rural areas. This study shows almost 97% of surveyed dentists enquire medical history, including medication and allergy. Only 60% of dentists record vital signs of their patients. The study shows that only 72.6% were trained for management of medical emergencies in dental office and 94.6% of them responded that training to dentist for the management of medical emergencies is important. It is found that only 68% of participants have been reported to be confident in handling medical emergency situation, and about 27% have been faced with medical emergency for the past 12 months.

Conclusion:

Dentists being members of the healthcare profession, should be prepared to deal with medical emergencies which may arise at their workplace. A better knowledge of medical emergencies is essential for further development and professional care for people with various medical complications. This will ensure the provision of better and safer dental healthcare services for the population.

Keywords: Adverse effects, dental office, drugs, knowledge, vital signs

Financial support and sponsorship

Nil.

Conflicts of interest

There are no conflicts of interest.

How to cite this article: Soniya H, Manju. A survey on evaluation of preparedness for medical emergencies at dental office. Int J Soc Rehab 2019;4:19-22.