Pre-Treatment Infection Control Practices and Associated Factors among Korean Dental Hygienists in Response to COVID-19

Background: Dental hygienists are crucial in managing infection control within dental clinical settings.This study focused on examining the pre-treatment infection control practices (PT-PRFIC) of Korean dental hygienists in the context of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) and identifying factors influencing their implementation levels.Methods: An online, self-administered survey was conducted with 263 dental hygienists working in dental hospitals or clinics.The survey explored various aspects such as the experience with infection control education (EduIC), PT-PRFIC, and the types of surface disinfectants used.Additionally, data from previous studies on the knowledge level of COVID-19 (KNWCO), infection control awareness level (AWRIC), infection control performance level (PRFIC), and infection control organizational factor (OFWIC) were utilized.Statistical analyses included t-tests, one-way ANOVA, chi-square tests, Pearson correlation, and multiple linear regression.Results: The study identified variations in PT-PRFIC based on the number of dental hygienists within an organization.Differences in EduIC were observed concerning age, number of years worked, and monthly pay.The OFWIC had the most substantial impact on PT-PRFIC, followed by PRFIC, and AWRIC.Conclusion: To improve compliance with PT-PRFIC, it is essential to consider a combination of factors including OFWIC, PRFIC, and AWRIC.Strengthening organizational factors and awareness can enhance infection control practices and prevent COVID-19 transmission during dental care.