Cross-infection compliance of UK dental staff and students.

OBJECTIVES: The objectives of the study were to determine the compliance of a group of dental health care workers and students in aspects of cross-infection control. DESIGN: The dentists and dental students working in a dental clinic were observed by a ‘hidden’ ceiling-mounted video camera. Procedures were recorded onto videotape and the actions of the observed clinicians and students assessed by two suitably qualified assessors. SETTING: An emergency Oral Medicine clinic in a dental hospital. SUBJECTS Seventy nine dentists and 35 dental undergraduates. METHODS: The action of staff and students were recorded on videotape and assessed retrospectively. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Degree of compliance with recognised infection control policies. RESULTS: Compliance with recommended guidelines for control of cross-infection was poor. In only 56% of health care worker-patient contacts were protective gloves changed between patients. Facemasks and protective eyewear were only worn in 38% and 29% of such contacts respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Compliance with cross-infection control measures are poor in dentistry - even when clinicians are provided with appropriate facilities.