Knowledge Regarding COVID-19 Awareness among Private Dental Practitioners in Karachi

Abstract

Objective: Study is to assess knowledge about corona among private dental practitioners in Karachi.      Study Design: Prospective cross sectional study. Materials & Methods:  This study is a cross-sectional study conducted during the time period of May, 2020 to Sept, 2020 in Karachi. The online questionnaire was divided into 2 sections, the first one included a biodata section including years of practice and clinic area. The second section comprised of knowledge regarding disinfection techniques against COVID-19 and modes of transmission of COVID-19. There were 10 multiple choice questions to assess the presence of SARS-CoV-2 on different surfaces found in the clinic. Effectiveness of various disinfectants and hand sanitizers was asked and the viability of SARS-CoV-2 on steel surfaces, tissue papers, glass and plastic material. Results: As our study focuses only private dental practitioners, we contacted them through emails and questionnaires were sent. Responses were received by 125 dentists and 20 dentists did not provide with completely filled questionnaire. Among total of 145 dentists, 67.2% (n=84) were males and 32.8% (n=41) were female practitioners. Amongst 125 dentists, 58.4% (n=73) had adequate knowledge regarding disinfection, viability of virus on different surfaces and proper protective equipment. 33 dentists scored total of 6 out of 10 with only 19 dentists having score of <6.  Conclusion: The global pandemic of 2019 has led to drastic changes in healthcare setups and way of providing healthcare services. In this study we found that around 60% of dentists have adequate knowledge about disinfection and modes of transmission of COVID-19. Private dental practitioners need to take adequate protective measures and disinfection techniques to prevent transmission.