Assessment of interns and postgraduate dental student's knowledge regarding equipment ergonomics.

CONTEXT

The substantial knowledge concerning ergonomics and its practical application is vital for forestalling musculoskeletal disorders. The role of equipment ergonomics (EE) in preventing these work-related ailments is significantly noteworthy.

AIM

The aim of the study was to assess the prevailing perception of postgraduates (PGs) and interns regarding EE and preparing the Indian dental workforce for the challenges of India's growing economy and population.

SETTINGS AND DESIGN

Authors conducted a cross-sectional survey between December 2013 and February 2014 amidst the interns and PG dental students of Davangere city, Karnataka, India.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

The data were collected using 21-item custom designed proforma, comprising of questions evaluating student's basic knowledge about EE.

STATISTICAL ANALYSIS USED

Statistical analysis was done using Chi-square test in each group (PGs and interns) and Mann-Whitney test was implemented for comparison between both groups.

RESULTS

Of 358 subjects surveyed, 48% PGs and 52% interns affirmed that they came across EE only through this survey. In addition, 91.18% of PGs and 90.59% interns believed that the accentuation on EE is less in the current dental curriculum.

CONCLUSIONS

Comprehensive understanding and practical application of EE among the participants was found to be lacking. The importance of microbreaks and chair side exercises should be emphasized and training should be initiated at an early stage before improper postural habits develop.