Conhecimento dos graduandos de Odontologia da Universidade Federal de Uberlândia a respeito da Hepatite B

Abstract

Introduction: Hepatitis B virus (HBV) contamination is an alarming occupational hazard for dental professionals. Knowledge about the disease, forms of contagion, prevention and biosecurity standards are fundamental for the disease not to be transmitted to the dentist, as well as not to be propagated in clinical settings. Proposition: This study aimed to evaluate the knowledge of students of the School of Dentistry of the Federal University of Uberlandia (FOUFU) about Hepatitis B (HB). Materials and Methods: This survey-type cross-sectional study had a sample universe of 66 students. The students participating in the research attended the 7th and 8th periods. The self-administered questionnaire addressed sociodemographic data, knowledge about HB, immunization, biosecurity, and University awareness and responsibility. The results were released in Microsoft Excel and were quantitatively analyzed. Results: The participation rate in the present study was 88% (n = 58). About the general knowledge of HB, only 7% of students pointed out that the disease can be fatal. Regarding the forms of transmission, the most cited were: blood transfusion (86%), occupational accident (84%) and injecting drugs (79%). Concerning the groups most susceptible to HBV infection, students pointed to drug addicts (76%), debilitated patients (50%) and homosexuals (31%). In the immunization theme, 95% of the sample assured to be vaccinated against HB, and only 41% performed serological test. Regarding the instructions given by the University on HB, 86% of the sample reported that no seroconversion test was required before the start of clinical activities. Regarding biosecurity, it is noteworthy that 7% of students reported not using the item goggles. Conclusion: Thus, it was possible to verify that the knowledge of the research participants has gaps. It is suggested greater incentives on the studied theme, in order to stimulate the construction of preventive awareness in the students in formation.