Evaluation of Change in Knowledge, Attitude and Adoption Regarding Antibiotic Prophylaxis for Infective Endocarditis Before and After Health Education among Dental Interns in a Private Dental Teaching Institution in India

Abstract

Background: There was paucity of data regarding updating of 2007 AHA (American Heart Association) guidelines among dentists in India. Objective: To evaluate change in knowledge, attitude and adoption of AHA (2007) guidelines regarding Antibiotic prophylaxis for Infective endocarditis before and after health education among dental interns in a private dental teaching institution. Materials and Methods: This was an interventional study conducted among dental interns in a teaching dental institution. Data was obtained using a validated questionnaire that finally had 32 items. Data was obtained by sharing an online link to complete survey. A reminder was also given one week later and participant responses obtained. Each correct response for a question was assigned a score of 1 while incorrect response was scored as zero. Total score was computed for each participant. Health education on AHA 2007 guidelines for antibiotic prophylaxis against infective endocarditis was offered to participants using power point presentation for about 30 -45 minutes on a scheduled day following baseline data collection. Immediately after health education, participants were again requested to fill the same questionnaire used at baseline. Mean knowledge score before and after health education was compared using paired sample t-test. Results: 74 participants were considered with response rate of 91.4%. Mean knowledge score significantly increased from 11.5 ± 4.3 (Mean ± Standard deviation) at baseline to 22.9 ± 4.2 post intervention (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Health education intervention was successful in improving knowledge, attitude and adoption of AHA 2007 guidelines for antibiotic prophylaxis against IE among dental interns.