Summary of: The impact of fluoride application training: Survey of trained dental nurses from King’s College Hospital NHS Trust

Abstract

Objectives: To explore the perceived benefits of a fluoride varnish training scheme, subsequent use of extended skills and any barriers that exist, in order to inform future training and practice. Method: Questionnaire survey of the first four cohorts of fluoride varnish training at one London dental hospital. Results: Thirty-six (62%) nurses responded to the survey, 89% of whom were using fluoride varnishing. 'Personal development', 'NHS initiatives' and 'having a supportive principal' were key drivers for course attendance. Over 2,500 fluoride application treatments were carried out (range=0-630) with six nurses providing 71% of the treatments. Twenty nurses (56%) worked in the salaried primary dental care service and provided 69% of treatments, the remaining 31% of treatments were provided by the 44% (n=16) of nurses in general dental practice. Barriers were 'systems-related' and 'professional', including lack of community programmes, consultant oversight, referrals, materials and concerns regarding insurance and consent. The majority felt that the course contributed to their professional career (97%), and expressed their confidence in conducting fluoride application (80%). Conclusion: The findings highlight the potential for using extended roles to deliver evidence-based prevention and variation in their use; however, there is some evidence that organisational and professional barriers exist. © 2012 Macmillan Publishers Limited. All rights reserved.