A mental disorder is a pattern of behavior or thought that causes severe suffering or impairs one's ability to function. Due to their inability to lead a regular life, mentally challenged people have been found to have poor oral health. The aim of this study was to assess health care providers’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding oral health care of hospitalized patients at St Giles Psychiatric Hospital in Fiji. A cross-sectional survey design was employed in which 29 health care providers completed a questionnaire that collected socio-demographic information, knowledge, attitude and practices regarding oral health maintenance and care of psychiatric patients. Results revealed that all participants (100%), had knowledge on oral health and oral hygiene practices. However, only 9 nurses (50%) and 5 ward orderlies (63%) reported practicing oral hygiene for in – patients. In fact, 5 (17%) respondents did not view oral hygiene as an important aspect in their patients’ health. All participants (100%) reported unavailability of oral hygiene aids and absence of frequent dental visits, as a key barrier in the oral health care of patients. The results emphasize on the need for a formal training program for health care providers, and clear policies and guidelines about oral health care of hospitalized patients must be instituted.

Objectives: To compare the level of knowledge, attitudes/opinions and screening practices of Nursing Officers (NO) with Medical Officers (MO) and Dental Officers (DO) regarding oral cancer of HealthCare Professionals in Kiribati. Methods: All MO, DO and a representative number of NO were included in the study. MO and DO were placed in one group (MO/DO) and NO being another group. One hundred self-administered questionnaires were distributed to participants to determine their knowledge, attitude and screening practices. Results: The response rate was 70%, with 48% answering incorrectly regarding treatment choice. There were 63% who had low knowledge score and 37% with high knowledge score. Nursing officers had lower knowledge scores and incorrect treatment choices compared to MO/DO group. Fifty percent of participants screened patients. More MO/DO reporting to screen patients for oral cancer compared to NO. Conclusion This survey identifies the need to improve knowledge, attitude and screening practices for nursing officers with regards to oral cancer. Lack of specialists and inadequate training in medical and nursing school are the main barriers.