Page 127 - FINAL COMPENDIUM 2020-2021 27.2.2022

EVALUATING THE KNOWLEDGE, EXPOSURE AND PRACTICE OF MALAYSIAN DENTISTS IN
CONSCIOUS SEDATION AND THEIR ASSOCIATED FACTORS
NMRR-20-799-54299 (IIR)

Hamzah SZ, Mohd FN

Introduction: Conscious sedation (CS) in dentistry is becoming more popular in Malaysia
nowadays. However, the knowledge, exposure and practice of conscious sedation in
dental setting have rarely been explored. Objectives: To evaluate the knowledge,
awareness, exposure and practice of Malaysian dentists on conscious sedation in dentistry
and their association with sociodemographic profile. Materials and methods: A cross-
sectional study using an online questionnaire (Qualtrics@ Software) was conducted
among Malaysian registered dentists. The responses on sociodemographic profile,
knowledge, awareness, exposure and practice on conscious sedation were collected both
quantitatively and qualitatively. Association for categorical data were analysed using Chi
square test. Results: A total of 166 respondents completed the survey, resulting in
response rate of 43.1%. Majority agreed that conscious sedation was beneficial in allaying
dental anxiety and knew at least 3 types of CS. More than half had been exposed in
inhalation sedation (IS) with less than half had CS exposure during undergraduate (UG).
However, only a quarter practising CS in their dental practice. Surprisingly, those who had
worked less than 10 years felt that they needed more exposure on CS during UG and those
who were practising in government dental clinic settings were less likely to offer CS for
their patients. Conclusion: Majority of the Malaysian dentists were aware about
conscious sedation in dentistry and have some knowledge about it. However, their level
of understanding differs between individuals. Postgraduate students have had more
exposure in CS as compared to that of undergraduate students especially in the local
universities. It is motivating to conclude that majority of the respondents were interested
to receive further training in CS if it was made available and expecting to offer the service
in their practice in the future. This study has suggested that training in CS in dentistry in
Malaysia should be strengthened in the future either during undergraduate or
postgraduate studies as well as in service training.

Dr Siti Zaleha Hamzah
Special Care Dentistry Unit
Hospital Kajang
Kajang, Selangor
Ministry of Health Malaysia

AP Dr Farah Natashah Mohd
Kuliyyah of Dentistry
Islamic International University of Malaysia
Bandar Indera Mahkota
Kuantan, Pahang
Malaysia

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