Abstract:
In dentistry, blood borne microorganisms, including hepatitis B virus and human
immunodeficiency virus (HIV), pose a risk for occupational exposure among
oral health care workers. Impressive technological advances enable dental
practitioners to use valid, practical, measurable and sustainable infection
control practices. The unique nature of dental procedures and settings, requires
specific and unique preventative strategies to minimise disease transmission.
Since 1993 it has been recommended that South African dentists adhere to the
recommendations for infection control of the Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention. The main objective of this study was to examine the adherence to
infection control recommendations in dental practices in South Africa, with
specific attention paid to practices associated with the use of a steam autoclave
steriliser. All dental practitioners registered with the Health Professions Council
of South Africa were included in this study. Practitioners with foreign addresses
were not included. A postal questionnaire was used for collecting data. 738
respondents returned completed questionnaires. 87% of respondents indicated
that they treat each patient as a possible source of infection. Many respondents
(53%) admitted that their preferred method of sterilising handpieces is
wiping/soaking in liquid chemicals. Only 17% of the respondents indicated that
they autoclave handpieces after each patient. These results indicate a serious
need for South African infection control guidelines and audit recommendations
specific to dental practices in order to promote a safer dental environment for
the health care worker and patient.
