Evaluation of Knowledge and Preparedness of Pedodontists and Residents to Prevent and Treat Pediatric Medical Emergencies during Dental Treatments

ABSTRACT

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate the knowledge of pedodontists and residents in the face of pediatric medical emergencies. Material and Methods: This descriptive-analytical study was conducted on pedodontists and residents participating in the Congress. The knowledge evaluation tool was a researcher-made questionnaire with acceptable validity and reliability. The questionnaire consisted of seven sections on information and education, prevention, office staff readiness, practical abilities, cardiopulmonary resuscitation skills and intravenous access, medicines, and emergency treatment equipment. After completing the questionnaires, the data were analyzed using SPSS 21. Chi-squared test, t-test, ANOVA, correlation test, and linear regression were used for data analysis (P<0.05). Results: The study examined 150 specialists, 88 residents, and 62 pedodontists. The level of knowledge of specialists and pedodontic residents in the face of pediatric medical emergencies was 35.3% (moderate) and 31.7 (weak), respectively. The specialists' scores on the entire questionnaire and areas of information, medicine, and equipment were significantly higher than those of residents. Moreover, participation in lectures and reading papers significantly increased general awareness. Conclusion: The results indicated that specialists' awareness and pedodontic residents about pediatric medical emergencies during dentistry were at a different level, necessitating more practical and theoretical training.