Preparedness of dental clinics for medical emergencies in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Aim: To assess knowledge, training of dental staff and the availability of emergency drugs and equipment in dental clinics, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Methods: Cross-sectional survey was conducted in a random sample (N: 325) of governmental and private clinics in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, between June-December 2016. Questions included Dentist's specialty, age, years of experience, knowledge and preparedness to handle ME (level of training, types of emergency drugs and equipment available). Results: One dentist from each clinic filled the questionnaire (100% of the sample), 19% of whom were general dentists. Medical history is taken orally by 86% of respondents before dental treatment and 12% take vital signs every visit. Of the surveyed clinics, 30% didn't have emergency contact numbers available, 78% didn't have an emergency protocol and only 54% have a medical emergency plan with 11% performing periodic office emergency drills. The most available emergency drug and equipment were Aspirin (53%) and Sphygmomanometer (86%). Oxygen delivery device was not available in 90% of the surveyed clinics. Conclusion: There is an alarming inadequacy of clinic/staff preparation to deal with ME. Efforts should be made to increase the awareness of dentists to take needed precautions and prepare their clinics. (C) 2018 The Authors. Production and hosting by Elsevier B.V. on behalf of King Saud University.