1889. Knowledge, beliefs and practices about COVID-19 infection and vaccination in healthcare personnel at non-acute care facilities

Abstract

Abstract Background The objective of this study is to characterize the experiences, knowledge, beliefs, and perceptions of risk related to COVID-19, infection prevention practices, and COVID-19 vaccination among healthcare personnel (HCP) at three non-acute care facilities. Methods The study protocol was approved by the Washington University IRB. Between April-May 2021, anonymous surveys were distributed to HCP at three non-acute care facilities in St. Louis, MO. Data was collected on demographics, experience working in healthcare, COVID-19 exposures, knowledge and beliefs about infection prevention policies and procedures, PPE use, perception of risk of acquiring COVID-19, and COVID-19 vaccination status. Results There were 156 respondents; 78% were female, and 53% reported >10 years of healthcare experience. The largest proportion (32%) were in direct patient care as nurses or nurses’ aides. A majority (97%) reported adequate knowledge of how to protect themselves from COVID-19 at work, and most (95%) reported access to adequate PPE supplies. HCP (58.7%) reported that wearing a mask or face shield made communication difficult, 56% stated they had taken on additional responsibilities due to staff shortages, and 53% indicated that their job became more stressful because of COVID-19. More than a quarter (28%) had considered quitting their job due to COVID-19. HCPs were more concerned about acquiring COVID-19 in the community than at work (47 vs 33%). When asked about the COVID-19 vaccine, 78% of respondents reported receiving at least one dose of vaccine and 72% had completed a primary vaccine series. The most common reasons given for deciding to get vaccinated were a desire to protect family and friends (84%) and wanting to help stop the spread of COVID-19 (82%). For unvaccinated respondents (29%), the most common reasons for not receiving vaccination were concern for side effects (53%) and belief that the vaccine was not tested well enough (50%). Conclusion A significant proportion of HCP reported stress and increased responsibilities at work due to COVID-19, and 1 in 4 considered leaving their job. A majority were vaccinated, with concerns about side effects or inadequate vaccine testing cited as the most common concerns by unvaccinated HCPs. Disclosures All Authors: No reported disclosures.