Ventilation and air-conditioning systems in dental clinics and COVID-19: How much do we know? #MMPMID34306533
Plaza-Ruiz SP; Barbosa-Liz DM; Agudelo-Suarez AA
J Clin Exp Dent 2021[Jul]; 13 (7): e692-e700 PMID34306533show ga
BACKGROUND: This study evaluated the association between knowledge and management of ventilation and air-conditioning systems (VAC) to avoid the spread of the SARS-CoV-2 virus in health facilities by dentists and demographic variables. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A cross-sectional digital media survey was administered to dentists as part of global research. The core questionnaire was used including four additional questions on VAC (Q1: knowledge, Q2: work settings, Q3: temperature, and Q4: maintenance). A descriptive analysis was conducted for sociodemographic and VAC variables, and bivariate analysis was carried out using different tests. RESULTS: 5370 dentists answered the survey (median age of 45 years; 72.22% women). About half of the respondents said that they knew about the guidelines issued for the management of air conditioners (AC) during the pandemic, and 16.77% have made modifications to their VAC systems during this period. The most frequent AC temperature range used in the dentists' offices during the pandemic was 18 degrees C to 20 degrees C. As age increased, self-reported knowledge about VAC guidelines expanded. Remote and rural regions were perceived to have less knowledge of the guidelines. CONCLUSIONS: Although perceptions of knowledge about VAC systems during the COVID-19 pandemic was high, the temperature in dental offices was colder than that recommended. Greater disclosure of VAC management practices and adherence to VAC management guidelines are required. Key words:Air conditioning, dentistry, coronavirus.
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J+Clin+Exp+Dent 2021 ; 13 (7): e692-e700
