The Ability Of Dentists And Dental Assistants To Deal With Medical Emergencies In Dental Clinics In Najran, Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Objectives:

To investigate the ability of dentists and dental assistants to manage the medical emergencies in dental clinics in the Najran region, Saudi Arabia.

Methods:

A cross-sectional study was carried out using a questionnaire that was distributed online to 87 dentists and dental assistants working in private dental clinics in the Najran region, Saudi Arabia in November and December 2022. The questionnaire gathered information regarding the prevalence of medical emergencies, knowledge of the about the deal with emergency cases, and the  availability of emergency equipment and drugs.

Results:

78.2% experienced an emergency in the dental clinic. 25.3% of emergencies situations were diabetic problem (hypoglycemia/ hypoglycemia). 86.2% have undergone emergency medical training and/or basic life support training, 83.9% thought that they can handle any emergency situation. 66.7% are able to do CPR. The participants had insufficient level of knowledge regarding the management of emergency medical situations. The required equipment and drugs in emergency cases are available in most dental clinics in Najran region, Saudi Arabia.

Conclusion:

There is a high prevalence of medical emergencies in dental clinics in Najran region, Saudi Arabia. There is a deficiency of knowledge regarding the management of emergency medical situations among dentists and dental assistants. The required equipment and drugs in emergency cases are available in most dental clinics.