| Abstract [eng] |
Relevance of the Issue and Aim of the Study. Following the end of the global COVID-19 pandemic, public concern regarding the prevention of infectious diseases has noticeably declined. As the spread of SARS-CoV-2 diminishes, dental students continue to work in high-risk environments because of regular exposure to various oral pathogens that are released into the working environment during aerosol-generating procedures. Therefore, it is essential that future dental professionals demonstrate a high level of awareness and ability to adhere to infection control protocols. During the post-COVID period, no studies have assessed Lithuanian dental students’ knowledge regarding bioaerosols and protective measures. Accordingly, the aim of this study was to evaluate and compare the knowledge, and practical habits related to bioaerosols and personal protective equipment (PPE) usage among dental students at Vilnius University in 2021 and 2025. Materials and Methods. Lithuanian-speaking dental students at Vilnius University were invited to participate in the study during the 2021 and 2025 academic years. 1st and 2nd year students were assigned to the control group. Participants received an anonymous electronic questionnaire consisting of five sections: (1) demographic data; (2) habits related to the use of PPE and compliance with infection control guidelines; (3) knowledge assessment; (4) self-assessment; and (5) questions about the need for additional training. Data were analyzed statistically using IBM SPSS Statistics 30.0, with a significance level set at p<0.05. The following statistical tests were applied: Chi-square test, one-way ANOVA and its variants, Mann-Whitney U test, Kruskal-Wallis test, Spearman and Pearson correlations. Results. The study included 198 students (105 in 2021 and 93 in 2025), with a total response rate of 93.4%. Students in 2021 wore at least seven types of PPE significantly more frequently during aerosol and non-aerosol generating procedures than in 2025. Differences were also observed in workplace hygiene practices. Overall knowledge among students was evaluated as poor, with 2025 third- to fifth- year students demonstrating significantly better results (F=7.049, p=0.009). Self-assessment responses revealed a tendency to overestimate knowledge. A total of 95% of respondents acknowledged the importance of infection control and adherence for dental professionals. However, 2025 students reported receiving less training and practical experience in infection control compared to their 2021 counterparts (p<0.05). A need for additional training was expressed by 62.6% of participants, with periodic two-hour practical sessions identified as the preferred format. Conclusions. Despite notable changes in PPE-wearing habits among 2021- and 2025-year dental students, knowledge about bioaerosols and protective measures remained insufficient. Although some improvement was observed among 2025 3rd-5th-year students, the overall need for additional periodic training in infection control remains high. |
