The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on UK dental nurses' professional practice 2020-21: lessons for the future

Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic has reshaped dental care in the United Kingdom, particularly influencing dental nurses' practice. This study explored dental nurses' experiences during the phased return to work from June 2020, amid evolving infection prevention and control policies.

Aim: To explore dental nurses' experience during the phased return to work post-COVID-19 and draw conclusions for the future.

Method: A sequential two-stage mixed-methods approach was used. In July 2021, a 34-item anonymous online survey was distributed via Facebook and analysed using SPSS software. In September 2021, seven interviews were conducted and analysed.

Results: This paper focuses on the online survey. A total of 121 dental nurses participated, predominantly white (66%), female (88%), and aged 30 years and over (76%). Most were registered dental nurses (84%), with 31% holding extended-duty qualifications. The main sources of infection prevention guidelines were from NHS standard operating procedures (SOPs) (51%), Public Health England (45%), employer SOPs (42%), government publications (40%), the World Health Organization (34%) and the General Dental Council (28%). Nurses expressed concerns about frequent updates to infection prevention policies, particularly regarding aerosol-generating procedures.

Conclusion: While the pandemic presented challenges, including lockdown restrictions and enhanced protective equipment requirements, dental nurses showed resilience and dedication. Despite financial, physical, and psychological strains, they adapted professionally, emphasising the need for clear communication and accessible support systems.