Development of a rational antibiotic usage course for dentists

Aim: The aims of this report are to describe the development process of this rational antibiotic usage course and to evaluate the short-term efficiency of the course in terms of the level of improvement in knowledge and feedbacks of the participants. Materials and Methods: A needs assessment survey was carried out on the curriculum development process in order to determine the patterns of drug usage and level of knowledge on antibiotics of potential participants. A total of 162 dentists from two dental hospitals in Izmir were interviewed using standard questionnaires. The course content and educational strategies were determined according to the needs assessment results. Fifty-eight dentists applied to the first three courses conducted between 2002 and 2004. Pre/post-test design was performed for level of improvement in knowledge and a questionnaire form, scored by Likert Scale with 5 point, was used for participants' feedback. Results: The mean score, which was 9.74 +/- 2.71 in pre-test, increased to 18.16 +/- 1.58 in post-test and the difference was significant (t = -28.805; P = 0.000). The knowledge and approach of the trainers was appreciated most of all. Participants enjoyed the course very much, and reported a high level of satisfaction regarding the content, trainers, educational techniques and teaching material. The suggestions for future courses included increasing the course length (21.2%). Results from the needs assessment survey revealed that the study population over-used antibiotics, relied on incorrect sources of information, was unaware of the results of irrational antibiotic usage and did not check sufficiently with patients before prescribing. Conclusions: These findings supported the need for regular courses in the application of antibiotics in dental practice and continuous refreshment of knowledge.