A Clinical Audit of Cross-Infection Control Practices in Orthodontic Setups During the COVID-19 Scenario

Abstract

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has caused many changes in the practice of orthodontics, with the main focus being prevention of cross-infection. Clinical audits can help assess the extent to which practices/practitioners adhere to standard cross-infection control protocols, thereby providing scope for improvement resulting in better treatment outcomes. Objective: Phase 1—to investigate the type of cross-infection control procedures being followed by orthodontic residents of 5 dental institutes in Hyderabad city and compare them to recommended guidelines. Phase 2—after identification of the shortcomings, analyzing how re-education and revision of guidelines can lead to improvements in cross-infection prevention protocols. Methodology: Orthodontic residents of 5 dental institutes were observed with regard to their routine infection control practices, which were compared to a set standard. A second audit cycle was conducted on the same clinicians after a seminar where they were encouraged to work on shortcomings at their workplace. The results from the 2 audit cycles were then compared to assess differences. Results and Conclusion: While most clinicians were aware of the recommended cross-infection control guidelines, few steps were neglected while in practice. Comparisons between the 2 audit cycles revealed definite improvements.

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“…Most common practices were checking the temperature (71.7%) and obtaining a brief travel history (59.4%). This is similar to the findings of 14 Thakur et al where screening for temperature was done in 88% of the orthodontic set ups in Hyderabad, India. However compared to Thakur et al 's study where only 32% of the orthodontic practices were enquiring COVID-19 symptoms from their patients , majority of our participants followed this practice (68.9%).…”