Evaluation of a course on the operation and management of a local decontamination unit for undergraduate dental students.

Objective: Describe the formulation of learning outcomes and evaluate a new course for undergraduate dental students in managing a local decontamination unit (LDU). DESIGN, SAMPLE AND SETTING: This was a retrospective analysis of questionnaire data from the first cohort of dental students completing the LDU managers course in a UK dental school.

Methods: All final year dental students were invited to complete a course evaluation. Data were collated via an anonymous semi-structured questionnaire distributed at a post-course session.

Results: A response rate of 95% was achieved. The majority (89%) improved their knowledge of decontamination and felt that the course material was relevant (81%) to their future role as a dental practitioner. Students stated that the practical elements of the course provided a valuable educational experience, while tutorials on health and safety and quality management systems proved less popular. The use of an e-learning programme to support the lectures and practical sessions was also useful in achieving the learning outcomes. The one-week intensive course proved challenging for both students and staff. We identified short comings both locally and nationally in the availability of appropriately trained staff to teach this core topic.

Conclusion: We describe a series of learning outcomes to support competencies in instrument decontamination for dental undergraduates and a purpose built training facility. The evaluation of the course suggests this model meets current and future General Dental Council (GDC) requirements for training of dental undergraduates. We identified a shortage of appropriately qualified teachers in this subject area and recommend that these deficiencies are addressed as part of a coordinated national strategy.