Exploring the Collaborative Experiences of Nursing Technicians, Midwifery Technicians, and Dental Assistants in KSA in Promoting Oral Health and Its Impact on Patients' Overall Well-Being: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Oral health plays a crucial role in overall well-being, and healthcare professionals across various disciplines contribute to its promotion. This qualitative study explores the collaborative experiences of nursing technicians, midwifery technicians, and dental assistants in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) in promoting oral health and its impact on patients' overall well-being. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with a purposive sample of 20 participants, including nursing technicians, midwifery technicians, and dental assistants. Thematic analysis was employed to identify key themes and subthemes. The findings revealed four main themes: 1) interprofessional collaboration, 2) patient education and empowerment, 3) challenges and barriers, and 4) perceived impact on patient well-being. Participants emphasized the importance of effective communication, knowledge sharing, and coordinated care in promoting oral health. They also highlighted their roles in patient education, empowerment, and addressing challenges such as limited resources and cultural barriers. The collaborative efforts of these healthcare professionals were perceived to contribute positively to patients' overall well-being. This study underscores the significance of interprofessional collaboration in oral health promotion and provides insights for enhancing healthcare delivery in KSA.