Key Points
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Our Oxfordshire survey found that 60% of dental nurses in the region were unqualified and previous research indicates that this may reflect the national situation.
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There is concern that a rigid training programme with compulsory examinations may compound existing recruitment problems resulting in a national shortfall of dental nurses.
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Proponents of statutory registration argue that formal training with continuing professional development is necessary to keep up with the advances of modern dentistry and may raise the profile of dental nursing within the health profession.
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The dental nurse training programme should be flexible and consistent nationally with adequate support for dental nurses and practices.
Abstract
There has been much discussion about the impending legislation for compulsory registration of dental nurses. A questionnaire survey of Oxfordshire dental practices found that 60% (153/254) of dental nurses had no formal qualifications. Of these 49% (75/153) were already on a training course or planning to apply for one although those who achieve mediated entry may discontinue training. Overall, 40% (62/153) were planning to apply for mediated entry. Previous research indicates that there may be similarly high proportions of unqualified dental nurses throughout the UK. There are concerns that a rigid training programme and compulsory examinations will compound existing recruitment problems, and create a national shortfall of dental nurses. Proponents believe that formal training will better equip dental nurses to handle the demands of modern dental practice and bring them in line with other auxiliary health personnel. Training needs to be co-ordinated nationally to ensure adequate access and consistent standards. Dental nurses and practices should be consulted and supported throughout the implementation period.
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Acknowledgements
The authors would like to thank all those who participated in the survey. Thanks also to Dr Jose Miola (Lecturer, Faculty of Law, University of Leicester) for advice on medico-legal aspects of this paper.
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John, J., Thomas, D., Richards, D. et al. Regulating dental nursing in the UK. Br Dent J 193, 207–209 (2002). https://doi.org/10.1038/sj.bdj.4801524
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/sj.bdj.4801524
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