Knowledge, Attitudes, and Perceptions of Dental Assistants regarding Dental Asepsis and Sterilization in the Dental Workplace

Table 2

Knowledge, attitudes, and perception of dental asepsis and sterilization among dental assistants.

Select knowledge questions	Count (%)
Correct techniques for use of alcohol-based hand rub
To great extent	41 (58.58%)
Somewhat	29 (41.42%)
Application of hand rub techniques at the correct times
Always	19 (27.14%)
Sometimes	51 (72.86%)
Do you ensure all critical items are packaged and labeled with batch control identification information before sterilization?
Always	08 (11.42%)
Sometimes	59 (84.28%)
Rarely	03 (4.30%)
Do you ensure all instruments are cleaned and disinfected, as defined within the practice standards?
Always	17 (24.28%)
Sometimes	53 (75.72%)
Do you maintain and refresh your knowledge on infection, prevention, and control measures annually?
Yes	64 (91.42%)
No	06 (8.58%)
Ensure all contaminated reusable items properly cleaned and dried
Always	05 (7.14%)
Sometimes	65 (92.86%)
Trained in safe practices for the handling and disposal of sharp objects
To great extent	23 (32.86%)
Somewhat	47 (67.14%)
Ensure appropriate storage and handling of critical items to maintain their sterility until point of use
Always	05 (7.14%)
Sometimes	43 (61.42%)
Rarely	22 (31.44%)
Ensure equipment and materials, which have been in contact with the patient’s mouth, are handled appropriately
Somewhat	62 (88.58%)
Very little	08 (11.42%)
Do you ensure validation and annual performance requalification are properly performed for each sterilizer?
Yes	65 (92.86%)
No	05 (7.14%)