Author: Amanda Reddington – Clinical Assistant Professor, University of Southern Indiana Author: Joy Cook, MS, RT (R)(CT)(MR) ARRT – Associate Professor, Chair & Program Director, University of Southern Indiana Author: Heather Schmuck, MS, RT(R) – Clinical Associate Professor and Clinical Coordinator, University of Southern Indiana Submitter: Amanda Reddington – Clinical Assistant Professor, University of Southern Indiana
Objectives: Studies show that lead apparel is not always cleaned and/or cared for utilizing manufactures instructions. Due to this, integrity of the apparel can be diminished, bacteria can harbor thus increasing patient’s exposure to infection and radiation. This study sought to examine students’ knowledge about the appropriate care and use of lead apparel and to identify any need to strengthen radiology curriculum.
Methods: Participants included students enrolled in their first semester of dental assisting/hygiene and second year of radiologic technology programs during the fall 2019 semester. The convenience sample (n = 52) involved students from: radiologic technology (19), dental hygiene (21), and dental assisting (12). The activity involved an IRB [1501512-1] approved research focus utilizing a pre and post survey tool previously piloted by the researchers (survey pilot IRB [1409811-1] approval). Students were placed into groups containing students from each program. Groups rotated through the radiologic technology and dental laboratories completing visual, tactile, and radiographic and bioburden (utilizing ATP protein tests) exams. Group discussion and post activity surveys were completed.
Results: 45 complete surveys were returned. Results from knowledge scale responses indicated a significant increase (p = < .01) in the mean score between the pre (m = 4.53) and post (m = 5.58) survey responses. Additional analysis determined this increase in the mean score occurred across all three disciplines. Student learning was positively impacted through this activity and addressed an area of knowledge gap that students can carry with them into practice.
Conclusion: Allied dental and radiology technology students worked with each other to strengthen their knowledge of lead apparel care and of similarities in their professions. Incorporating additional emphasis on the importance of lead apparel care and cleanliness in the allied dental curriculum was proven beneficial to increasing students’ knowledge and their future practice.
