Blood Pressure and Blood Sugar Assessment by Recent Dental School Graduates

Publication date: Available online 19 April 2017
Source:Oral Surgery, Oral Medicine, Oral Pathology and Oral Radiology
Author(s): Michael N. Hatton, Heather Orom, Patrick L. Anders
ObjectiveTo determine whether 2010-2014 graduates of the School of Dental Medicine at Buffalo, NY (UB-SDM) continue to assess blood pressure and capillary blood sugar after graduation.MethodsStarting in 2010, UB-SDM pre doctoral students were required to assess blood pressure (BP) on all patients, and capillary blood sugar (CBS) on all diabetic patients at every clinic appointment. UB-SDM graduates from 2010-2014 were sent an anonymous survey consisting of 34 questions to determine whether these assessments continue after graduation. The survey consisted of BP/CBS assessment parameters, including benefits and barriers to assessments.ResultsWhile UB-SDM graduates generally assessed BP (77%) and CBS (23%), most did not follow the school's strict educational policies when providing these services. Dental practice policies mandating BP/CBS assessments were positively correlated with UB-SDM graduate's actually providing these services. Lack of time and poor practice support were cited as negative factors towards BP/CBS assessments.ConclusionsDisparities between UB-SDM educational efforts and entrenched dental practice cultures must be addressed in order for our graduates to fully embrace BP/CBS assessments in practice.

Teaser

Recent dental school graduates' willingness to assess blood pressure/blood sugar in practice is positively influenced by having a work place policy fostering these assessments. Negative influences towards these assessments include practice culture issues, and time management concerns.


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