Knowledge, Attitude and Perceived Confidence in Handling Medical Emergencies among Dental Practitioners in Dakshina Kannada, India

Introduction: Medical Emergencies may arise on the dental chair despite efforts to minimize them. Lack of training and inability to cope with these can lead to tragic consequences. Aims: The aim of this study was to assess the perceived level of competency among dental practitioners in handling medical emergencies. Materials and Methods: A structured survey consisting of 13 questions pertaining to knowledge, attitude and perceived confidence of dental practitioners in handling medical emergencies was developed, and 282 dental practitioners holding at least a Bachelor of Dental Surgery degree and practicing in Dakshin Kannada district, Karnataka, India were approached. Statistical analysis used: The data collected was tabulated and analysed by using the Epi-info version 5.0 and Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 17.0. The results were expressed in terms of proportion, chi-square test, odds ratio and its 95% confidence interval were applied for comparison purpose, a p-value<0.05 was considered as statistically significant. Results: Over 70% of the specialists responded that they record medical history and follow the universal precaution guidelines. Training as well as perceived confidence of most dentists was statistically low in administering Cardio-Pulmonary-Resuscitation, intravenous drugs and Heimlich maneuver. The training and perceived confidence was highest for measuring blood pressure and managing syncope. Conclusions: Dentists do have a gap in their knowledge, awareness and practice; hence a curriculum related to handling medical emergency should be enforced in dentistry to provide safe healthcare.