Knowledge and perception about basic life support among dental interns: A questionnaire survey

Abstract

Background: Knowledge of basic life support (BLS) is an absolute necessity for dental professionals to face acute dental emergencies. Aim and Objectives: The present study was aimed to assess the awareness, knowledge, and perception about BLS among dental interns of Dera Bassi, Punjab and further to determine self-rated ability to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation/BLS including knowledge of automated external defibrillators. Methodology: A descriptive questionnaire study was done on 99 dental interns. Questionnaire consisted of 19 questions which included the data pertaining to demographic details, awareness, and knowledge of BLS. Descriptive statistics were compiled. Further, comparison based on gender was done using independent t-test. Results: All the study participants were aware of the BLS and its usefulness. The mean knowledge score was found to be 11.13 ± 2.64. 3%. Most of the study participants (36.04%) were having average knowledge followed by fair knowledge score (29.30%). Females were having more BLS knowledge as compared to males. Conclusion: The study indicates average knowledge of BLS among dental interns. The present study highlights the need for a structured training of BLS and inclusion of BLS in the dental academic curriculum.