Knowledge evaluation of dentistry teachers from Amazonas State University about child abuse

Abstract

The dental surgeon is in an advantageous situation for early detection of child abuse due to greater involvement of lesions in a child’s head and neck region, an area in which this specialist works. The aim of this study was to evaluate the dentistry professor’s knowledge of Amazonas State Universtiy about the role of the dental surgeon regarding child abuse.  Forty-five questionnaires were used for a descriptive cross-sectional study.  Results: Most dental surgeons have one specialty (75.56%), actual work time of 16 to 20 years (31.11%), and work in public and private environments (71.11%). More than half (53.33%) correctly defined child abuse. Many (75.56%) incompletely cited the abuse types but listed physical (71.11%) and psychological (57.78%) as the prevalent. Forty-four stated that it is the professional’s responsibility to be aware of child abuse. From 0 to 10, an average of 5.71 for ability to identify abuse was obtained. Physical and behavioral signs (84.44% and 77.78%, respectively) were the most cited. Some already suspected abuse while performing dental care, of which some called the Guardianship Council. Half answered that the Guardianship Council is the body to be called. Eighty percent did not know if they would suffer legal consequences if they did not report suspected abuse. An average of 8.74 regarding willingness to receive information on the subject was obtained.  Conclusion: The interviewees demonstrated basic knowledge about dental surgeons’ roles in cases of child abuse. Specialties and experience time did not influence knowledge levels. Most showed interest in receiving information about the topic.