title: Quality and adequacy of training of expanded function dental auxiliaries in the U.S. Army.
abstract: This study explores the quality and adequacy of training U.S. Army expanded function dental auxiliaries (X2s). Data were collected in the spring of 1989 using self-administered questionnaires from dental commanders, clinic chiefs, X2 graduates, dentists working with X2s, and potential X2 students. Nearly all (94.2%) dental activities personnel responded. Results show overall performance of X2s was rated excellent or very good by 76% of commanders, 70% of clinic chiefs, and 42% of dentists. Of 23 job-specific tasks assessed, X2s received lowest performance ratings for placement of complex composite restorations and highest ratings for individual topical fluoride application. Of X2 graduates, 82% rated the overall quality of X2 training as very good or excellent. X2 graduates and their supervisors recommend retaining each job-specific skill in the X2 training program while lengthening the program from 16 to 28-30 weeks. Training of U.S. Army X2s may offer a model to other dental care systems with limited resources.
authors: Epidemiology Section, U.S. Army Institute of Dental Research, Fort Meade, Maryland.
authors: M C
authors: MC
authors: Chisick
mesh_terms: D003727:Dental Auxiliaries / Q000193:education*; D003729:Dental Care; D008885:Military Dentistry; D008889:Military Personnel; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D013647:Task Performance and Analysis; D014481:United States