Aim: This study aimed to investigate professional views of the implication of NICE guidance in dental setting.
Method: In-depth interviews were conducted with ten dental care professionals and cardiologists concerning their views on the implementation of the NICE guidance on antibiotic prophylaxis for treatment of patients with cardiac conditions in dental settings. The data were analysed using Framework analysis.
Results: Dentists were initially pleased to implement the NICE guidelines, because it standardised care. They also believed that it could be a positive change to reduce the risk of harmful effects following the use of antibiotics. But they experienced difficulties in explaining the new guidance to patients who have long believed that they must receive antibiotics prior to their dental treatment. The problems were particularly found with those patients who have had infective endocarditis. Concerns were also raised about the legal position of a medical professional who did not follow the guidance. Cardiologists revealed mixed opinions about the implication of NICE guidelines. The lack of strong evidence to support the guidance and different guidelines from other cardiac societies especially the American Heart Association (AHA) made them less confident to adhere to the NICE guidance. Clinicians generally suggested that the provision of accurate information in the form of leaflets and websites would be the best way to advise patients about the new guidance.
Conclusions: Clinicians anticipated that it would be difficult to explain to patients the change in clinical practice necessitated by adherence to the NICE guidance. They placed particular emphasis on the provision of accurate information in order to reassure patients.