Knowledge of Final Year Dental Students Regarding Management of Medical Emergencies in Sudanese Universities
Knowledge of Final Year Dental Students Regarding Management of Medical Emergencies in Sudanese Universities
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Date
2026
Authors
Alaa Elnour Bakheet
Awatif Idris Galal
Elaf Anwer ali
Samah Yousif Fadlelmula
Samah Yousif Fadlelmula
Yageen Kamal Gafar
Aziza Makki Ali
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Napata College
Abstract
Background: Medical emergencies can occur unexpectedly in dental settings, and
final-year dental students must be adequately prepared to manage them. However, data
on the knowledge level of Sudanese dental students regarding emergency management
is scarce.
Objective: This study aimed to assess the knowledge of final-year dental students in
Sudanese universities regarding the management of medical emergencies and to
identify associated factors.
Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 78 final-year
dental students from public and private universities in Sudan. Data were collected using
a structured self-administered questionnaire covering demographic characteristics,
sources of knowledge, and knowledge of medical emergency recognition and
management. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 26.0, with descriptive statistics,
independent t-tests, ANOVA, and chi-square tests applied. A p-value <0.05 was
considered statistically significant.
Results: The majority of participants were female (77.0%) and aged 24–26 years
(67.6%). While 75.0% felt their curriculum adequately prepared them, the mean
knowledge score was only 4.51 out of 8 (56.4%). The highest correct responses were
for hypoglycemia recognition (85.7%), anaphylaxis recognition (70.0%), and use of the
carotid artery for pulse check (68.6%). Major knowledge gaps were identified in the
recognition of tachycardia (27.5% correct), normal vital signs (58.9% correct), stroke
(47.1% correct), and hyperventilation physiology (56.2% correct). Students who
utilized multiple knowledge sources (lectures, clinical training, and the internet) scored
significantly higher than those relying solely on lectures (mean 5.71 vs. 3.94, p =
0.002). No significant differences were found based on gender, age, or university type.
Conclusion: There is a notable discrepancy between perceived preparedness and actual
knowledge among final-year dental students in Sudan regarding medical emergency
management. Significant knowledge gaps exist in key areas. Multimodal educational
strategies that integrate clinical training and simulation are essential to enhance
preparedness and ensure patient safety