Evaluation of Infection Control Awareness and Compliance among Undergraduate Dental Students in the Teaching Hospital of Karachi & Lahore, Pakistan
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.17685163
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.63075/z3nbha54Keywords:
Infection Control, Dental Students, Knowledge, Attitude, Practice, Cross-Contamination, Karachi, Pakistan.Abstract
BACKGROUND: Infection control is a critical component of dental education and clinical practice. Dental students are at high risk of cross-contamination due to frequent exposure to blood and saliva during patient care. Adequate knowledge and compliance with infection control protocols are essential to prevent the transmission of infectious diseases in the dental setting.
OBJECTIVE: To assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) regarding infection control among undergraduate dental students staying at the teaching hospital of Karachi, Pakistan
METHOD: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among undergraduate dental students from a selected teaching hospital in Karachi and Lahore . A self-administered, structured questionnaire was used to evaluate students’ knowledge, attitude, and practice related to infection control measures including hand hygiene, use of personal protective equipment, sterilization, and waste management. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics to determine the association between demographic variables
RESULT:
Most participants demonstrated satisfactory knowledge of basic infection control measures; however, gaps were identified in compliance with standard precautions, particularly in consistence use of protective barriers and proper sterilization techniques. A positive attitude towards infection control was observed, though actual practices were not always aligned with knowledge levels. Statistically significant differences were noted between clinical and preclinical students (p < 0.05)
CONCLUSIONS:
Although dental students showed adequate awareness and positive attitudes towards infection control, inconsistencies in practical application highlight the need for continuous training, stricter supervision, and reinforcement of infection control protocols within dental institutions.
