Training for medical emergencies in dental offices is essential to ensure the safety and well-being of patients and staff. This training typically covers a range of emergency scenarios, including cardiac arrest, anaphylaxis, asthma, and hypoglycemia. Utilizing tools such as emergency kits, CPR and AEDs, high-fidelity simulators, and virtual reality, dental professionals can practice and refine their response skills in realistic settings. It is important to emphasize rapid and effective intervention, adherence to established protocols, and continuous assessment to enhance preparedness and confidence in managing emergencies.

• Knowledge, Attitude, and Perceived Confidence in the Management of Medical Emergencies in the Dental Office: A Survey among the Dental Students and Interns

  A study from Dr. Albelaihi et al at J Int Soc Prev Community Dent 2027 Nov-Dec.

The authors agreed that medical emergencies in dental offices can lead to serious consequences without proper training. Their article aims to assess the knowledge, attitude, and confidence of dental students and interns in managing these emergencies.

A structured questionnaire was distributed to 153 undergraduate dental students, covering topics like syncope, CPR, intravenous drugs, vital signs, and managing aspiration, bleeding, and choking.

Survey results demonstrated that only 37% felt confident handling emergencies. Females were more aware of managing post-extraction bleeding than males (65% vs. 47%). Proper choking management was known by 35% of responsive individuals and 53% for unresponsive ones. Syncope was the most common emergency (28%).

The investigators concluded that despite good knowledge of CPR, participants lacked confidence in handling emergencies, particularly airway obstruction. Annual basic life support and emergency courses should be mandatory in the dental curriculum.

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