ASSESSMENT OF KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE AND PRACTICES REGARDING BIOETHICS AMONG STUDENTS IN DENTAL INSTITUTES OF PUNJAB

This cross-sectional study aimed to evaluate the levels of knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding bioethics among students enrolled in dental institutes across Punjab, India. A sample size of 202 students, including those exposed to clinical settings, participated in the study. A structured questionnaire was used to assess participants understanding of bioethical principles, their attitudes towards ethical dilemmas commonly encountered in dental practice, and their adherence to ethical standards in clinical settings. The findings revealed varying levels of knowledge among students, with notable disparities in understanding specific bioethical principles. Attitudinal responses highlighted a generally positive disposition towards ethical decision-making, although some students demonstrated uncertainty in navigating complex ethical scenarios. Furthermore, the study uncovered variations in the implementation of ethical practices among students in clinical settings. These findings underscore the importance of integrating comprehensive bioethics education within dental curricula to foster ethical awareness, enhance moral reasoning skills, and promote ethical conduct among future dental practitioners. Addressing these gaps in knowledge, attitudes, and practices is crucial for the cultivation of a morally conscious dental workforce capable of upholding the highest ethical standards in patient care and professional conduct.