ASSESSMENT OF THE KNOWLEDGE OF DENTISTRY COURSE STUDENTS ABOUT SYSTEMIC TOXICITY REACTIONS IN THE USE OF LOCAL ANESTHESIA

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the knowledge of Dentistry students about systemic toxicity reactions in the use of local anesthetics. Methodology: The study is cross-sectional, descriptive, with a quantitative-qualitative approach. The sample consisted of 76 students from the 4th to 10th periods linked to the Dentistry course at the Federal University of Campina Grande. The questionnaire took place virtually, via (Google forms), as they were sent to academics by email. Results: Females had a higher percentage of correct answers. The percentage of errors and successes was similar between individuals who declared themselves capable and those who were not qualified to make the AL choice. The percentage of correct answers was higher in the group of students who understand the workload of the Therapeutics and Anesthesiology discipline as being adequate. The 8th P had the highest percentage of correct answers and the 6th P had the lowest. In relation to the comparison of the initial and final periods (4ºP, 8ºP-10ºP) with the intermediate periods (5ºP to 7ºP), the initial and final group had a higher percentage of correct answers. Conclusion: The majority of students do not feel confident in choosing a local anesthetic, however, according to the study, they have moderate knowledge about the use of LA and their possible systemic toxicity reactions. A more in-depth study on this topic during graduation in theoretical and practical disciplines is a measure that can result in better prepared graduates in the UFCG Dentistry course.