Perception toward wearing white coat among clinical students of a dental college in South India: A cross-sectional study

Abstract

Background and Aim: Wearing white coat is a recognizable symbol among dental students. It is associated with dignity and respect. However, students are often spotted wearing white coat/apron in public places, a trait that needs to be explored/rectified. Therefore, the aim was to determine student's perception regarding the usage of white coat/aprons. Materials and Methods: A 10-item closed-ended questionnaire was distributed among clinical students of a dental institute. The questionnaire elicited their understanding of wearing white coat in hospital/college premises, reasons for wearing it after college hours/outside premises, maintenance of white apron, and their willingness to substitute with scrubs. The data were analyzed for frequency distribution. Results: About 65% wore white coat as personal protective equipment within college premises. About 40% commuted to college wearing white coat. More than 91% wore white coat outside college premises during and immediately after college hours. More than 71% kept their belongings in apron pockets. Reasons such as “To lazy to remove white coat” and “For a different feeling” were common responses for wearing white coat outside premises. Eleven percent cited “ease of clothing” as another reason. Majority of study participants preferred white coat over scrubs during college hours. Conclusion: The study provides insight of students understanding of white coat. There is a clear lack of awareness regarding when, where, and how to use a white coat. Institutions have an important role in promoting and disseminating the importance of using white coat. In addition, there is a need for standard white coat handling and maintenance policy to be drafted and implemented.

Keywords

• awareness
• clothing
• dental students
• perception
• universal precautions
• white coats