Effectiveness of an Educational-Video in Improving Needle-Stick-Injuries Knowledge Among Dental-Students

Objectives: The aim of this study was to determine if an intervention in the form of an educational video would enhance the knowledge of dental students regarding needle-stick injuries, their prevention and post-exposure protocol.
Methods: This randomised controlled trial included 50 dental students, divided equally into control and experimental groups. Baseline data was collected using a self-administered online questionnaire to both groups, followed by which only the experimental group was exposed to an educational video. Post intervention data was again collected from experimental group to assess the comparison of knowledge against control group. Later control group was also exposed to the same video and post intervention data was collected. Data was analysed using SPSS v.22, tests used were analysis of covariance (ANCOVA), Levene’s test and paired t-test with p value set at <0.05.
Results: Comparative analysis at baseline showed no significance between experimental and control groups with mean value 27.28 (SD=2.49) and 27.48 (SD=3.25) respectively (maximum score being 35). Post-intervention analysis showed significant difference between the two groups with increased mean 30.60 (SD=2.00) for experimental group. Significance was also noted post intervention for control group after they were exposed to the video as part of randomization with increased mean of 29.48 (SD=3.75). These results showed that the video was effective in improving the knowledge of dental students on needle stick injuries.
Conclusions: An educational video can hence be used as an effective tool to reinforce the knowledge about dangers of needle stick injuries, their prevention, and post-exposure protocol. This will help to better prepare students to practice safe dentistry at all times, and to avoid mishaps in the clinic.