PREFERENCE OF USE OF RESTRAINTS BY POSTGRADUATE STUDENTS IN PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY IN BENGALURU.

Abstract

Introduction:  Dental treatment of uncooperative children is a challenge to Paediatric dentists. If psychological behaviour management techniques are inadequate then restraints may be considered.

Aim: To assess the preference of use of restraints by post graduate students in Pediatric Dentistry in Bengaluru.

Method: A self administered questionnaire was designed, which contained 12 questions that assessed the demographic data and information on the use of physical, mechanical, and positioning devices in clinical practice. Information was also obtained on consent.

Results: A total of 80 postgraduate students participated in the survey. Our study revealed that 72.5% postgraduate students treat patients with some form of restraints. Only 26 % received training on the use of restraints. It was also observed that 70% have used HOME technique and 92.3% obtain only verbal consent before the use of restraints.

Conclusion: Majority of the postgraduate students used restraints to treat patients even though they have not received any formal training. CDE programs and workshops presented by specialists or faculty may be used to update the postgraduate students on the use of restraints.

Keywords: behavior management techniques, restraints, postgraduate students