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Citation |
Chadwick BL, Davies J, Bhatia SK, Rooney C, McCusker N. Br. Dent. J. 2009; 207(3): E6; discussion 130-1. |
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Affiliation |
Professor and Honourary Consultant, Training and Education Centre for DCPs, School of Dentistry, Cardiff University, Heath Park, Cardiff, CF14 4XY. |
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Copyright |
(Copyright © 2009, British Dental Association) |
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DOI |
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PMID |
19629144 |
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Abstract |
Objective To identify the training in, experience of and barriers to reporting child abuse among dental therapists in the UK.Design Postal survey.Subjects and methods A postal questionnaire was sent to all practising dental therapists (DTs) in the UK registered with the GDC (n= 851) in October-December 2007.Results A response rate of 49% (n= 420) was achieved; 24 (5.7%) questionnaires were incomplete and excluded. One hundred and ninety-three respondents (48.7%) had qualified in the last 10 years. One hundred and forty-seven (37.1%) recalled undergraduate training; 248 (62.6%) had received training since qualifying; 66 (16.6%) recalled no child protection training. Overall child abuse had been suspected by 135 (34%) DTs, while 72 (18%) had suspected but not referred the case.Conclusions The majority of dental therapists (83%, n= 330) have received training in child protection. Overall, 34% (n = 135) have suspected child abuse and 83% (n = 112) of these DTs recorded their suspicions in the patient record. In line with current guidance, most DTs would discuss a case with another dentist. Language: en |