Infection Control Knowledge and Attitudes Among Dental Technicians In Benghazi City–Libya

Abstract

Background: Potential disease transmission in the dental environments well documented. As well as dental technicians are exposed to a potential risk for infection transmission during work activity. Therefore, Infection control is an essential part in dental practices and dental technicians should strictly adhere to the standard precautions in order to prevent potential risks of cross contamination, thereby producing a safe environment for patients and staff. : The aim of this study was to evaluate the level of knowledge and attitude among dental technicians toward infection control protocols at the dental laboratories, Benghazi – Libya. Materials and Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among dental technicians. Selected from dental laboratories (public and private) at Benghazi, Libya. Using a pre-tested, self-administered questionnaire. The data was collected and analyzed by using SPSS software. Results: About 43.3% of sample  who worked in public dental laboratories, 37.8% of them were in private dental laboratories and just 18.9% of them work in both. While about 62% of  them  had sharp injures during work. About 65.5% of participants who work in public were aware that wearing a personal protective equipment is mandatory during work. Where overall mean of participants who work in both (public and private laboratories) had the significant highest level of attitude and good practice. Conclusion and recommendation: Educational programs aimed at  improve  dental technicians' knowledge of infection control by adopting the most effective prevention measures are essential for reducing the incidence of technicians, dentists, and patients exposure.

Key words: dental technicians, dental laboratories, knowledge, attitude and practice, infection control.