A survey of GDPs on their training and competence to deal with medical emergencies

Key Points

• A fifth of GDPs do not feel prepared to deal with a medical emergency.

• There is a perceived need for training in management of medical emergencies.

• Those who feel better prepared are more likely to possess the equipment necessary to do so.

Abstract

Objectives To ascertain the training received in management of medical emergencies recalled by general dental practitioners (GDPs), as undergraduates and since graduation, to examine how well prepared they felt to manage such events and how their readiness might be improved.

Design Postal questionnaire survey of a random sample of GDPs in Great Britain.

Subjects 1500 GDPs, 1000 in England & Wales and 500 in Scotland.

Results There was a 74% response. Among respondents, 75% had received training as undergraduates in the management of medical emergencies, 95% had subsequently received training. The proportion considering themselves 'well' or 'fairly well' prepared to manage emergencies rose from 30% at graduation to 80% currently. The 20% who felt themselves 'not very well' or 'not at all' prepared were less likely to possess the drugs and equipment to manage an emergency. Nevertheless, a need for further training was expressed by 96%: only 3% felt no need.

Conclusions Virtually all GDPs (99.2%), had received training in the management of medical emergencies at some time, principally since graduation. The 20% who feel inadequately prepared are less likely to possess the necessary drugs and equipment. There is a perceived need for further training among the majority of respondents.

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