Awareness regarding COVID-19 preparedness among dentists: A cross-sectional survey

Abstract

Background: Novel coronavirus pandemic has emerged as a grave global health crisis. The pandemic curve is still on the rise. Dental professionals face unique challenges and work pressure due to the fear of the spread of disease while coming in close contact with the potential carriers. Aim: The aim is to assess the knowledge and preparedness level toward novel coronavirus diseases among the dental professionals of India. Methodology: Online survey was carried out from May 2020 to June 2020 on dental health care professionals through snowball sampling. A 24-item structured closed-ended online questionnaire was used. Statistical Analysis Used: Frequency distribution and proportions of the responses were analyzed using the SPSS version 21. Results: A total of 154 dental professionals participated in the study. Majority of the respondents (72.72%) were aware about the correct genomic structure of the virus and aptly identified the early neurological symptom of novel coronavirus disease. 85.71% of the respondents were appropriately informed about the infection control protocol to be followed. However, regarding the protection level to be used while dealing COVID patients, only 24.03% of respondents correctly identified it as Level III. Regarding the amendments required in dental practice and level of preparedness, only 50% of the dental health-care workers were aware of the sequence of donning of personal protective equipment. Conclusions: In the present study, dentists were found to have good knowledge toward novel coronavirus disease with optimum preparedness level for dental practice modification. Dental fraternity is further advised to follow the standard guidelines overcoming this pandemic.