Abstract
Objectives: The aim of this study was to analyze the qualities and problems to be solved to strengthen the vocational competency of dental hygienists and to identify the work to be institutionally established. Methods: From April 1 to May 30, 2019, a total of 325 people participated (152 registered dental hygienists: RDH , 173 students of dental hygiene: SDH) in this study. The survey items were as follows: “job awareness” (6 items), “problem to be solved to strengthen vocational competency” (5 items), “qualities to be equipped to strengthen”competency" (9 items), and “practical work to be institutionally established” (4 items). Results: RDH and SDH had the highest perception of professionalism (3.68, 3.99 points), and low remuneration against work (4.21, 4.18 points) was perceived as the most important problem to be solved. The qualities for competency reinforcement showed the highest results in expertise knowledge (4.68, 4.64 points) and vocation for job (3.76, 4.09 points). Practical work to be established institutionally appeared as follows: X-ray film reading, dental hygiene diagnosis, periodontal pocket measurement, and periodontal pockets (<6 mm) treatment. Conclusions: This study is expected to be actively used to strengthen the vocational competency among dental hygienists, construct work autonomy, and rationalize and legalize practical work.
Figures & Tables
