An audit of the sedation activity of participants following their attendance on SAAD conscious sedation courses.

Abstract

The aim of this study was to analyse the results of a questionnaire given directly to participants of SAAD courses in 2011, and posted to previous participants, on their own use of conscious sedation. Apart from general interest, such data will help the SAAD Faculty to tailor the courses in future better to meet the needs of participants by providing insights into the attitudes and level of experience in sedation of course participants. Questionnaires were distributed to participants on all the 2011 SAAD courses and to all members of the dental team. In addition, the same questionnaire was posted to dentists who had attended courses in 2010 and 2007. In total 71% of the 157 dentists who completed questionnaires were providing conscious sedation in their practices. The most common technique used was intravenous sedation. Only 3% carried out any advanced techniques. 14% (n = 81) of dentists who had completed a SAAD course previously did not go on to use conscious sedation, and possible reasons for this are discussed. Participants' overall confidence in specific areas of sedation training were rated from 'good' to 'excellent' after completion of a SAAD course. Participants completing SAAD courses believe they have gained in confidence and in knowledge, and obtained the skills required to provide conscious sedation although some identify barriers which prevent them from putting these new skills into practice.