Microbial Flora on Aprons of Dental Healthcare Professionals

Objective : To determine the microbial flora present on aprons of dental healthcare professionals in a dental college & hospital. Materials and methods: Total 100 aprons of dental healthcare professionals were included in the study. An informed consent and questionnaire was taken. A cross sectional survey was designed with bacterial contamination of aprons in three predetermined areas (chest, pocket, sleeves). Result: It was observed that 66% of dental healthcare professionals used to wash their aprons once in a week with self grading by the participants, 92% of aprons were moderately clean. 71% of dental health care professionals used to wear their aprons while eating and at nonclinical areas. 88% of chest,84% of pocket and 71% of sleeves of aprons showed growth of microorganisms. Staphylococcus aureus was the most predominant isolate followed by Bacillus species and other all isolates were either environmental microorganisms or skin commensals. Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) was also found, which was a matter of concern. Conclusions: Aprons are a potential source of cross infection even in dental settings. It is recommended that guidelines should be there for handling and washing procedures of aprons