Comparison of conventionally and digitally completed patient consent-anamnesis forms in terms of surface contamination

BACKGROUND: With the development of modern technology, the use of software-based applications in the field of health has become increasingly widespread. For this reason, computer-assisted personal registration forms have been developed using software programs. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to compare surface contamination during the filling of orthodontic anamnesis-consent forms, traditionally on paper and digitally on a tablet equipped with a software application, measured in confined spaces using the 3M Clean-Trace Luminometer device. METHODS: In order for the participants to complete the orthodontic anamnesis-consent forms, two separate identical cabins with standard flat surfaces were prepared. In the first cabin, the participants conventionally completed these forms on paper (conventional group), while in the second cabin, the other group used a tablet equipped with a software program for this purpose (digital group). After the form completion process, surface pollution of the predetermined areas was measured in both cabins using a 3M Clean-Trace Luminometer device. RESULTS: Surface contamination was found to be statistically significantly higher in all measurement areas in the conventional group than in the digital group. Despite a statistically significant difference between the two groups in relation to the measurements performed using the pens (conventional or electronic), this was not as strong as those found for the remaining surfaces. CONCLUSION: The completion of orthodontic anamnesis-consent forms over tablets significantly reduced surface contamination in the close environment. This study reflects the importance of digitization – which has become beneficial in many fields – in reducing the spread of infections.