title: Knowledge, attitudes and practices towards HIV positive and AIDS patients among public service dentists in Nairobi.
abstract: The purpose of this study was to assess the knowledge, practices and attitudes towards HIV Positive/AIDS patients among 112 dentists from public institutions in Nairobi using a self-administered questionnaire. 94(83.9%) responded. Over 74% had managed HIV positive/AIDS patients. In general, respondents' knowledge and preventive measures against HIV infection were satisfactory. 8.5% did not find use of protective eye wear absolutely necessary. 33% used protective covers routinely. 52.1% advocated for the screening of all suspected cases of AIDS before treatment. 27.7% felt that HIV positive health workers and those with AIDS should not be allowed to treat patients. 53.2% felt that they should be given the right to decide on treating HIV Positive/AIDS patients. 10.6% supported the idea that AIDS patients be isolated from uninfected individuals. It is concluded that a substantial number of dentists were wanting in their attitudes towards HIV positive/AIDS patients.
authors.affiliation: Department of Dental Surgery, College of Health Sciences, University of Nairobi, P. O. Box 30197, Nairobi.
authors.forename: Jacob T.
authors.initials: JT
authors.lastname: Kaimenyi
authors.forename: Francis L.
authors.initials: FL
authors.lastname: Ndungu