KNOWLEDGE, PRACTICES AND ATTITUDES TOWARDS HIV-POSITIVE AND AIDS PATIENTS AMONG DENTAL AUXILIARIES

The purpose of this study was to assess knowledge, practices and attit udes towards HIV positive and AIDS patients amongst 71 dental auxiliar ies using on a self administered questionnaire. 65(91.5%) returned the questionnaire. In general, respondents' knowledge was fair. 87.7% fel t that dentistry as practised in Kenya today carries a high risk of tr ansmission of HIV primarily because of improper sterilization of instr uments. 72.3% had changed their sex habits since they became aware of the dangers posed by indiscriminate sex. Over 67% used gloves and mask s routinely when assisting in the management of AIDS patients. Over 33 % did not use protective eye wear and protective covers on operatories routinely because they were not provided by the employer. 27.7% felt that AIDS and HIV positive health workers should stop treating patient s. 64.6% advocated that the cost of buying materials and equipment to prevent cross infection be met by the patient and the employer or dent ist. 23.1% supported the idea that HIV positive and AIDS patients be i solated from uninfected individuals. In conclusion, a substantial numb er of dental auxiliaries were wanting in their knowledge, practices an d attitudes towards HIV positive/AIDS patients.