Nurse practitioners and certified nurse midwives who frequently examine women could serve an important role in screening for oral health problems and making appropriate dental health referrals, according to a study in the Journal of Dental Hygiene (May 16, 2011).
Researchers from the University of North Carolina School of Dentistry wanted to assess the knowledge, opinions, and practice behaviors of nurse practitioners and certified nurse midwives regarding periodontal disease and adverse pregnancy outcomes.
They developed a 45-item survey that was mailed to 404 North Carolina nurse practitioners and certified nurse midwives who provide prenatal care. A total of 219 responded to the survey, a 54% response rate. Linear regression modeling was used to determine the statistical significance.
The respondents reported having limited knowledge regarding oral health, and the majority felt they should collaborate with oral healthcare professionals to screen patients for periodontal disease. Most agreed they needed more information about periodontal disease and adverse pregnancy outcomes.
"This study suggests that collaboration between nurse practitioners and certified nurse midwives with dental professionals could lead to improved oral healthcare for pregnant patients," the researchers concluded.
Increased basic and continuing education could prepare these professionals for collaborative care with oral healthcare professionals, they added.
