scholarly journals Perspectives on Light-Based Disinfection to Reduce the Risk of COVID-19 Transmission during Dental Care

BioMed ◽  
2022 ◽  
Vol 2 (1) ◽  
pp. 27-36
Author(s):  
Abdulrahman A. Balhaddad ◽  
Lamia Mokeem ◽  
Sharukh S. Khajotia ◽  
Fernando L. Esteban Florez ◽  
Mary A. S. Melo

Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is a positive-sense single-stranded RNA coronavirus capable of causing potentially lethal pneumonia-like infectious diseases in mammals and birds. The main mechanisms by which SARS-CoV-2 spreads include airborne transmission (aerosols and droplets) and the direct exposure of tissues (conjunctival, nasal, and oral mucosa) to contaminated fluids. The aerosol formation is universal in dentistry due to the use of rotary instruments (handpieces), ultrasonic scalers, and air–water syringes. Several layers of infection control should protect key stakeholders such as dentists, dental staff, and patients. These include the utilization of personal protective equipment, high-volume evacuation systems, pre-procedural mouthwashes, rubber dam, and more recently, antimicrobial photodynamic therapy and intra-oral visible light irradiation. These non-specific light-based approaches are relatively simple, inexpensive, and effective against viruses, bacteria, and fungi. Therefore, the present perspective review discusses the current efforts and limitations on utilizing biophotonic approaches as adjunct infection control methods to prevent the transmission of SARS-CoV-2 in dental settings. In addition, the present perspective review may positively impact subsequent developments in the field, as it offers relevant information regarding the intricacies and complexities of infection control in dental settings.

2020 ◽  
Vol 2020 ◽  
pp. 1-4
Author(s):  
Amit S. Pasari ◽  
Amol Bhawane ◽  
Manish R. Balwani ◽  
Priyanka Tolani ◽  
Vishal Ramteke ◽  
...  

Introduction. Hemodialysis technicians play a crucial role in infection control practices in hemodialysis units. Thus, it is important to assess the knowledge and attitude towards COVID-19 among hemodialysis technicians in this pandemic situation. Materials and Methods. An online survey composed of 22 closed-ended questions using Google Forms was conducted in the month of April (13th to 19th) 2020. The survey consisted of questions regarding the knowledge of COVID-19 and current hemodialysis practice among hemodialysis technicians. The study was approved by the institutional ethics board. The survey was administered online through a mobile phone invitation. Basic statistics (mean and standard deviation or total number and percent) were computed for all covariates. Results. Out of 150, 115 technicians participated in the survey. 80.9% of the participants were males. The mean age of respondents was 28.22 + 6.97 years. Most of the respondents could correctly identify fever (87.8%), breathlessness (86.08%), and dry cough (81.7%) as the symptoms of COVID-19 infection. 75.7% of the technicians were aware that it can be transmitted by asymptomatic persons. 61.1% of the technicians were segregating patients who had symptoms such as fever and cough to the last shift of the day. 81.1% of the technicians read the guidelines issued by the Indian Society of Nephrology—COVID-19 working group. But, only 25.5% of the respondents could rightly identify to keep a minimum distance of two meters between two beds while dialyzing a suspected patient of COVID-19 along with other patients to minimise risk of COVID-19 transmission. 60% of the technicians have received hydroxychloroquine as prophylaxis against coronavirus infection. Conclusion. Our study shows a significant knowledge gap among hemodialysis technicians about COVID-19. Effective COVID-19 education campaigns should be carried out intensively with relevant information among hemodialysis technicians to address the knowledge gap. A well-informed hemodialysis technician can prove to be a great tool to spread the right infection control practices among dialysis-dependent patients.


2018 ◽  
Vol 34 (S1) ◽  
pp. 36-37
Author(s):  
Jeffrey Lam ◽  
Linh Dang ◽  
Ngoc Phan ◽  
Hue Trinh ◽  
Nguyen Vu ◽  
...  

Introduction:Mobile health (mHealth) is increasingly being seen as a promising solution to the multiple health system challenges that Vietnam faces, including inadequate health service provision. Nevertheless, there is limited published information describing the sustainability of such mHealth solutions in the Vietnamese context. This study reviewed the available projects and interventions to evaluate factors challenging sustainability of mHealth initiatives in Vietnam.Methods:A multimodal scoping study was designed to collect data from various sources: published literature, government reports, unpublished literature, conference presentations, online documents, and key informant interviews. Relevant mHealth initiatives were identified and selected through electronic searches and informal discussions with key stakeholders. Collected data was charted and classified by thematic analysis. Challenges to the sustainability of mHealth initiatives were discussed in the context of the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT).Results:Twenty mHealth initiatives with relevant information and available data were collected, covering the period from 2010 to 2017. Fifteen (75 percent) were primarily funded by external donors, one (5 percent) was government supported, and four (20 percent) were self-funded projects. Five (25 percent) were on-going, and fifteen (75 percent) were completed at the time of data collection. Four (20 percent) out of the completed initiatives were continuing to use materials, infrastructure, and technology to engage end-users.Conclusions:The high percentage of external funding, complicated governmental bureaucracy and lack of government commitment, electronic medical record standardization, and legislation relating to mHealth are amongst the largest challenges to mHealth sustainability in Vietnam. In addition, findings demonstrate it is crucial for project managers of mHealth initiatives to build strong relationships with the Vietnam government and advocate for their mHealth initiatives in order to promote sustainability.


2004 ◽  
Vol 5 (2) ◽  
pp. 134-152 ◽  
Author(s):  
Foluso John Owotade ◽  
Adebola Fasunioro

Abstract Although identification of risks to dental healthcare workers has been explored in several industrialized nations, very little data is available from developing countries. This paper examines the occupational hazards present in the dental environment and reports survey results concerning attitudes and activities of a group of Nigerian dental care providers. A survey on occupational hazards was conducted among the clinical dental staff at the Dental Hospital of the Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital Complex, Ile-Ife in Osun State, Nigeria. Thirty eight of the forty staff responded, yielding a response rate of 95%. Subject ages ranged from 26 to 56 years with approximately 25% in the 31-46 year old bracket. All of the staff were aware of the occupational exposure to hazards, and the majority had attended seminars/workshops on the subject. Only five staff members (13.2%) owned a health insurance policy and 26 (68.4%) had been vaccinated against Hepatitis B infection. All dentists (24) had been vaccinated compared with only two non-dentists; this relationship was significant (p= 30.07, x2=0.000). Fourteen members of the clinical staff (36.8%) could recall a sharp injury in the past six months, and the majority (71.1%) had regular contact with dental amalgam. Wearing protective eye goggles was the least employed cross infection control measure, while backache was the most frequently experienced hazard in 47% of the subjects. The need for Hepatitis B vaccinations for all members of the staff was emphasized, and the enforcement of strict cross infection control measures was recommended. The physical activities and body positions that predispose workers to backaches were identified and staff education on the prevention of backaches was provided. Citation Fasunloro A, Owotade FJ. Occupational Hazards Among Clinical Dental Staff. J Contemp Dent Pract 2004 May;(5)2:134-152.


2013 ◽  
Vol 3 (2) ◽  
pp. 82-86
Author(s):  
Ashwin Muralidhar Jawdekar

ABSTRACT Having a policy on infection control based on current evidence and guidelines is essential for all dental practices. The evidence shows that all the members of the dental team may not possess adequate knowledge of all relevant aspects related to infection control, such as the transmission of infectious diseases, current regulations, etc. Moreover, there exists evidence to support the value of education and certified training the dental professionals in improving their understanding of infection control policies and procedures. The training must be provided by an expert team comprising of an academician with suitable clinical experience and demonstrable expertize in dentistry, and a microbiologist who understands the needs of dental settings. Evidence suggests that a training over 10 hours is associated with maximal benefits; and the CDC and BDA guidelines recommend training to all dental staff (clinical as well as nonclinical) for optimal benefits. Successful implementation of the infection control policies depends on the adequate provision of time and facilities for the same. How to cite this article Jawdekar AM. Infection Control Policy for Dental Practice: An Evidence-based Approach. J Contemp Dent 2013;3(2):82-86.


Author(s):  
Suhael Ahmed ◽  
Khaled Saad Hamad Alotaibi ◽  
Fatima Abdullah Binyahya ◽  
Ibrahim Abduljalil Albaijan ◽  
Nasser Ahmed Alfaleh ◽  
...  

Aim: The purpose of our research was to assess the knowledge and awareness regarding infection control practice against coronavirus infection in various dental clinics in Saudi Arabia. Methodology: A descriptive survey was conducted amongst 200 dentists. The study was conceptualised in riyadh elm university, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and inlcuded dentists from various dental clinics across kingdom of saudi arabia in the month of november,2020.  A questionnaire consisting of 12 questions was distributed, based upon knowledge of COVID-19, transmission as well as prevention strategies that can be implemented in dental clinics for stopping the chain of outbreak of this pandemic. The data was analyzed with the help of descriptive statistics using SPSS 25 software. Results: 71% of study participants felt the need for using N-95 masks routinely during patient treatment. An astounding number of participants (92%), believed that there have been significant changes in infection control after COVID-19 pandemic. 65% of participants believed that High volume evacuators (HVE) suction devices, as well as High efficiency articulate air (HEPA) filters, need to be used to control aerosol spread so as to prevent COVID-19 infection. Conclusion: Dentists in Saudi Arabia showed satisfactory knowledge and positive attitude towards COVID-19. Improving dentists’ level of knowledge could be achieved through increasing their accessibility to materials provided by dental health care authorities, which specifies the best and safest approaches for dealing with patients during and after the outbreak.


2020 ◽  
Vol 11 (2) ◽  
pp. 113-116
Author(s):  
Dinesh Rokaya

The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has spread globally. Dentists, dental specialists, dental assistants, dental staff, and patients are potentially at higher risk of COVID-19 infection during dental treatments. The prosthodontic dental treatment procedures may range from low to very high risk of COVID-19. This article presents necessary recommendations regarding the prosthodontic dental treatment procedures with standards of care and infection control.


2014 ◽  
Vol 22 (5) ◽  
pp. 17-19

Purpose – The purpose of this paper describes how an organization that would have had to pay almost £60,000 – more than its entire annual training budget – for a licence for a standard e-learning module on infection-control decided to create a course for itself. Design/methodology/approach – This paper explains the reasons for Addaction’s bespoke infection-control e-learning module, the form it takes and the advantages it has brought. Findings – This paper details how the module summarizes and clarifies a range of different – and often confusing – organizational and government policies and provides learners with clinically accurate but clear, relevant information. Practical implications – It has been revealed that some 85 per cent of people who have completed the module feel more confident, willing and able to take action – or advise others – in the event of an infection control concern. Social implications – This paper shows how a go-it-alone approach to designing e-learning modules is feasible for organizations that lack the resources to buy in such expertise. Originality/value – Top tips on designing an in-house e-learning module from someone who has undergone the process has been presented.


PLoS ONE ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 16 (2) ◽  
pp. e0245737
Author(s):  
Aurimas Bukauskas ◽  
Antiopi Koronaki ◽  
Ting-Uei Lee ◽  
Daniel Ott ◽  
M. Wesam Al Asali ◽  
...  

The COVID-19 pandemic has created enormous global demand for personal protective equipment (PPE). Face shields are an important component of PPE for front-line workers in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, providing protection of the face from splashes and sprays of virus-containing fluids. Existing face shield designs and manufacturing procedures may not allow for production and distribution of face shields in sufficient volume to meet global demand, particularly in Low and Middle-Income countries. This paper presents a simple, fast, and cost-effective curved-crease origami technique for transforming flat sheets of flexible plastic material into face shields for infection control. It is further shown that the design could be produced using a variety of manufacturing methods, ranging from manual techniques to high-volume die-cutting and creasing. This demonstrates the potential for the design to be applied in a variety of contexts depending on available materials, manufacturing capabilities and labour. An easily implemented and flexible physical-digital parametric design methodology for rapidly exploring and refining variations on the design is presented, potentially allowing others to adapt the design to accommodate a wide range of ergonomic and protection requirements.


Author(s):  
Yousef Khader ◽  
Mohannad Al Nsour ◽  
Ola Barakat Al-Batayneh ◽  
Rami Saadeh ◽  
Haitham Bashier ◽  
...  

BACKGROUND Despite the availability of prevention guidelines and recommendations on infection control, many dental practices lack the minimum requirements for infection control. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to assess the level of awareness, perception, and attitude regarding the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) and infection control among Jordanian dentists. METHODS The study population consisted of dentists who worked in private clinics, hospitals, and health centers in Jordan. An online questionnaire was sent to a sample of Jordanian dentists in March 2020. The questionnaire was comprised of a series of questions about dentists’ demographic characteristics; their awareness of the incubation period, the symptoms of the disease, mode of transmission of COVID-19 and infection control measures for preventing COVID-19; and their attitude toward treating patients with COVID-19. RESULTS This study included a total of 368 dentists aged 22-73 years (mean 32.9 years, SD 10.6 years). A total of 112 (30.4%) dentists had completed a master or residency program in dentistry, 195 (53.0%) had received training in infection control in dentistry, and 28 (7.6%) had attended training or lectures regarding COVID-19. A total of 133 (36.1%) dentists reported that the incubation period is 1-14 days. The majority of dentists were aware of COVID-19 symptoms and ways of identifying patients at risk of having COVID-19, were able to correctly report known modes of transmission, and were aware of measures for preventing COVID-19 transmission in dental clinics. A total of 275 (74.7%) believed that it was necessary to ask patients to sit far from each other, wear masks while in the waiting room, and wash hands before getting in the dental chair to decrease disease transmission. CONCLUSIONS Jordanian dentists were aware of COVID-19 symptoms, mode of transmission, and infection controls and measures in dental clinics. However, dentists had limited comprehension of the extra precautionary measures that protect the dental staff and other patients from COVID-19. National and international guidelines should be sent by the regional and national dental associations to all registered dentists during a crisis, including the COVID-19 pandemic, to make sure that dentists are well informed and aware of best practices and recommended disease management approaches.


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