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Thakur A, Sowmya J, Chitra P. A Clinical Audit of Cross-Infection Control Practices in Orthodontic Setups During the COVID-19 Scenario. JOURNAL OF INDIAN ORTHODONTIC SOCIETY 2022. [DOI: 10.1177/03015742211073755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has caused many changes in the practice of orthodontics, with the main focus being prevention of cross-infection. Clinical audits can help assess the extent to which practices/practitioners adhere to standard cross-infection control protocols, thereby providing scope for improvement resulting in better treatment outcomes. Objective: Phase 1—to investigate the type of cross-infection control procedures being followed by orthodontic residents of 5 dental institutes in Hyderabad city and compare them to recommended guidelines. Phase 2—after identification of the shortcomings, analyzing how re-education and revision of guidelines can lead to improvements in cross-infection prevention protocols. Methodology: Orthodontic residents of 5 dental institutes were observed with regard to their routine infection control practices, which were compared to a set standard. A second audit cycle was conducted on the same clinicians after a seminar where they were encouraged to work on shortcomings at their workplace. The results from the 2 audit cycles were then compared to assess differences. Results and Conclusion: While most clinicians were aware of the recommended cross-infection control guidelines, few steps were neglected while in practice. Comparisons between the 2 audit cycles revealed definite improvements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agrima Thakur
- Department of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics, Army College of Dental Sciences, Secunderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Jangam Sowmya
- Department of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics, Army College of Dental Sciences, Secunderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Prasad Chitra
- Department of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics, Army College of Dental Sciences, Secunderabad, Telangana, India
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