Teaching Methodologies for Implementation of Ergonomic Operator and Patient Positioning
Purpose/Hypothesis: This research was designed to study the impact of inter-professional teaching methodology on the application of skill sets related to operator and patient positioning in dentistry. Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are highly prevalent among dentists. Knowledge of correct operator and patient positioning promotes safe working postures that can prevent the development of MSDs.
Number of Subjects: 41
Materials and Methods: A randomized case control study was conducted with a convenience sample of 83 first year dental students at UNC Chapel Hill. Forty-one students participated in the research through the data collection phase. All students participated in a didactic lecture on ergonomics and correct operator and patient positioning. The following week the students practiced in a pre-clinic setting with peer patients. The case group students received ten additional minutes of hands on one-on-one instruction with the equipment by a trained physical therapy student. Two weeks later all students were assessed by a faculty member using a scored, picture-based rubric on operator and patient positioning for restorative work on both the mandibular and maxillary arch. Photographs were taken of each student in their final posture, while working on the maxillary arch, for post analysis assessment.
Results: The composite ergonomic positioning score was noted to be higher in the case group than the control group (p= .0063). Individually, the scores for the operator shoulder abduction position (p=.0289) and the scores for torsoversion of the spinal column (p= .0207) were other areas of statistically significant differences between groups.
Conclusions: Brief individualized instruction positively effects ergonomic compliance and provides students with tailored feedback that can be applied to clinical practice. Further studies with a larger sample size and additional individualized instruction time are warranted. The outcome of the student interprofessional experience should be examined.
Clinical Relevance: Interprofessional education may benefit dental professionals in obtaining ergonomically correct posture.