Knowledge Assessment of the Dental Healthcare Workers Regarding Sterilization Integrity of Dental Instruments

Background and objectives: Sterilization process has been considered as an integral part of the infection prevention and control measures in dental clinics. The primary objective of this study is to assess the knowledge of the dental healthcare workers related sterilization integrity of autoclaved dental instruments. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted by the use of a structured, self-administered questionnaire that has been sent through the Saudi Dental Society's e-mail database. Results: The study included 680 participants and 224 responded to the questionnaire (32.9%). Only 4.5% have responded correctly to the questionnaire. 67.3% have written and accessible policy and procedures related to instruments' sterilization and 60.5% have not attended training sessions related to sterilization. The statistical analysis showed a significant association with working in the governmental facility and attending training sessions in sterilization (p<0.05). Participants who have infection control policy in their institution have significantly higher knowledge. Conclusion: The study indicates insufficient knowledge of the dental healthcare workers related to maintenance of sterilization integrity of the autoclaved dental instruments.