KNOWLEDGE LEVELS AND ATTITUDES OF STUDENTS OF ORDU UNIVERSITY FACULTY OF DENTISTRY TOWARDS THE USE OF SAFE CUTTING AND SHARP INSTRUMENTS

Sharps injuries are among the leading occupational accidents and risks to which healthcare workers are exposed. Our study aimed to evaluate the level of awareness and approaches of Ordu University Faculty of Dentistry students about the safe use of sharps during their education and throughout their professional lives. The study included 189 students who voluntarily agreed to participate in the study among the 4th and 5th grade students studying at Ordu University Faculty of Dentistry. Demographic information and multiple-choice questionnaire questions were asked to measure the level of knowledge and attitudes of the students toward the safe use of materials. All data of 189 students [147 female (75%) and 42 male (25%)] were included in the study. It was determined that the most common cause of injury was 'glass in the hand as a result of a broken light bulb'. The most common intervention was 'cleaning with antiseptic' with 52%. Dental students are at serious risk of sharps injuries during their clinical practice training. To minimize these risks, faculties should take the necessary precautions by health quality policies.