Correlates of infection control practices in dentistry,☆☆,,★★

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Abstract

Background: Studies conducted in the first decade of the AIDS epidemic indicated that, in general, dentists had suboptimal levels of compliance with standard infection control practices, including work practices designed to reduce exposure to bloodborne pathogens. This study was designed to assess current rates of compliance with these practices in a population of Maryland dentists and to identify correlates of safe work practices. Methods: We surveyed 648 Maryland dentists using a confidential, self-administered questionnaire. Results: Three hundred and ninety-two questionnaires were returned (60% response rate). We found that infection control practices were variable as reported by responding dentists. In addition, several potentially modifiable factors were found to be significantly correlated with these practices, including (1) attitudes toward patients infected with HIV and (2) safety program management within the practice. Conclusion: These data are encouraging in that recommended infection control practices are being adopted, at least among a sample of Maryland dentists. Strategies for further improvement are identified. (AJIC Am J Infect Control 1998;26:29-34)

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From the Departments of Environmental Health Sciencea and Epidemiology,b School of Public Health, The Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore; Department of Infection Control,c Holy Cross Hospital, Silver Spring; and private practice,d Westminster.

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Supported by the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health and the Educational Resource Center, Inc.

Reprint requests: Dr. Robyn R. M. Gershon, The Johns Hopkins University, School of Public Health, Department of Environmental Health Science, 615 N. Wolfe St., Room 1013, Baltimore, MD 21205.

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0196-6553/98/$5.00 + 0  17/46/80259