A Cross-sectional Study on the Knowledge, Attitudes, and Performance of Iranian Endodontists Regarding Diabetic Patients.

Abstract

Introduction: The high prevalence of diabetes mellitus and related consequences in all populations of the world makes their management an important challenge in endodontic practice. This study aimed to evaluate the knowledge, attitudes, and performance of Iranian endodontists regarding the management of diabetic patients.

Materials and methods: Questionnaires with 18 items were distributed to Iranian endodontists from different geographical provinces of Iran using social media. Responses to each question used a five-point Likert scale. Data for responses were analyzed using Chi-square or Fisher's exact tests.

Results: A total of 101 valid responses were returned for analysis (50 men and 51 women). None of the respondents had aggregated scores that were rated as unfavorable on 3 domains. Knowledge was rated as favorable for 81% and acceptable for the remaining 19%. Attitude was rated as favorable for 63%, and acceptable for 37%, while performance was rated as favorable for 98% and acceptable for the remaining 2%. Also, none of the 3 variables under evaluation were influenced by demographic factors or by work experience. The most common areas of uncertainty for respondents were monitoring blood for glucose or glycated hemoglobin concentration, and decisions regarding when to prescribe antibiotics.

Conclusions: Overall, this cohort of endodontists displayed a high level of knowledge of the major issues involved in diabetic patient care and were confident in providing clinical care. Future programs for continuing professional development for endodontists should consider current methods used for monitoring blood glucose and glycated hemoglobin, both as point-of-care or personal devices. In addition, further education is needed on antibiotic stewardship.