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, vahidghobad@iau.ac.ir
Abstract: (246 Views)
Background and Objective: The architectural layout of dental clinics plays a key role in infection control and in promoting the occupational health of staff and patient safety. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between architectural spatial elements and the level of infection control in dental clinics in Tehran.
Methods: This applied research was conducted using a mixed-method approach (quantitative and qualitative). In the qualitative phase, data were collected through semi-structured interviews with nine experts in architecture, healthcare, and dentistry. Thematic analysis was performed using MAXQDA (version 2018). In the quantitative phase, data from 377 questionnaires were analyzed using SPSS (version 28), and Pearson correlation coefficients were used to examine the relationships between variables.
Findings: The results indicated that the components of "spatial organization," "segregation of circulation paths," and "separation of contaminated and clean zones" had the highest priority and strongest correlation with infection control. The Pearson correlation coefficients for these components were 0.85, 0.78, and 0.72, respectively (p<0.01). In addition, the use of hygienic and flexible furniture was identified as other important factors in reducing the risk of pathogen transmission.
Conclusion: Hygienic design and appropriate spatial layout in treatment areas can significantly prevent infection spread in dental clinics. Developing architectural safety standards and providing continuous training for healthcare staff are recommended strategies for improving the safety of dental care environments in Iran.
Keywords: Architectural Layout, Infection Control, Dental Clinic, Spatial Design, Space Circulation
Methods: This applied research was conducted using a mixed-method approach (quantitative and qualitative). In the qualitative phase, data were collected through semi-structured interviews with nine experts in architecture, healthcare, and dentistry. Thematic analysis was performed using MAXQDA (version 2018). In the quantitative phase, data from 377 questionnaires were analyzed using SPSS (version 28), and Pearson correlation coefficients were used to examine the relationships between variables.
Findings: The results indicated that the components of "spatial organization," "segregation of circulation paths," and "separation of contaminated and clean zones" had the highest priority and strongest correlation with infection control. The Pearson correlation coefficients for these components were 0.85, 0.78, and 0.72, respectively (p<0.01). In addition, the use of hygienic and flexible furniture was identified as other important factors in reducing the risk of pathogen transmission.
Conclusion: Hygienic design and appropriate spatial layout in treatment areas can significantly prevent infection spread in dental clinics. Developing architectural safety standards and providing continuous training for healthcare staff are recommended strategies for improving the safety of dental care environments in Iran.
Keywords: Architectural Layout, Infection Control, Dental Clinic, Spatial Design, Space Circulation
Article number: 17
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