Assessment Of Knowledge, Attitude & Practice of Dental Students Towards Ergonomics in Dentistry

Abstract

Introduction: Ergonomics is a field of science that strives to learn about human abilities and weaknesses and then use that knowledge to enhance people's interactions with products, systems, and environments. Ergonomics seeks to change workspaces and conditions to minimize the risk of injuries or damage. As technology evolves, so too is the need to ensure that the instruments we have access to for work, rest, and play are built to meet the needs of our bodies.This study aims at assessing the knowledge, attitude, and practice of dental students towards ergonomics in dentistry. Materials and methods: A self-structured questionnaire survey based on the assessment of the knowledge, attitude, and practice of dental students towards ergonomics in dentistry, a prospective study comprising about 120 people were circulated on an online survey platform using Google forms and were asked to take up the survey by the students. The questionnaire was tested for validation at the Saveetha Dental College, Chennai. The results were collected and the data was analyzed by Pearson chi-square test using SPSS Software version 23 at p<0.05. Results: The survey results recorded that 35% were between 20-25, 33.33% were between 18-20 and 31.67% were between 25 & above. About 61.67% were Females, 38.33% were Males. The results and statistics were analyzed using SPSS software (P value <0.05). The majority of the respondents were assessed to have good knowledge, attitude, and practice about ergonomics in dentistry. Conclusion: Effective use of ergonomics ensures maximum efficiency and prevents injuries or illnesses. The identification of risk factors and the application of ergonomic strategies are essential. Students have awareness of ergonomics and are knowledgeable of its contribution to workplace health. However, they are having difficulty adopting ergonomic postures.