A cross-sectional study to assess knowledge, attitude and practice among healthcare workers regarding COVID-19 at a National Institute of North India

Abstract

Background and Objectives. Healthcare workers (HCWs) are the frontline warriors of the battle against COVID-19 and are at high risk of exposure to SARS-CoV-2. Therefore, knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) among HCWs play a vital role in preventing and spreading COVID-19. Hence, the current study aimed to assess KAP among HCWs regarding COVID-19. Methods. This descriptive, cross-sectional study enrolled 171 HCWs of a national institute in North India. A self-administered questionnaire was used to assess KAP among HCWs regarding COVID-19. Descriptive statistical analysis was applied to compare and represent the level of association of KAP scores among HCWs. Results. Among HCWs (n=171), 106 (61.98%) were males, and 65 (38.01%) were females. Most (n=76; 44.44%) belonged to the 20-29 age group. The mean±S.D score of HCWs for knowledge, attitude, and practice were 42.76±2.14, 28.91±1.59 and 20.38±1.46, respectively. Excellent knowledge, attitude, and practice score were found in 66.1%, 69.1%, and 97.1% of HCWs, respectively. Knowledge score was maximum in resident doctors (44.09±1.13); however, multi-tasking staff (29.35±1.44), laboratory technicians (29.31±1.21), and ward boys (29.29±1.59) had better attitude scores. Nurses (28.44±1.69) and safaikaramacharis (28.11±1.96) had low attitude scores. The practice score of nurses and multi-tasking staff fared well than resident doctors. Knowledge and attitude scores were statistically associated with the profession and higher level of education. Conclusion. The study highlights that most HCWs have good KAP regarding COVID-19. Continuous dissemination of education on the prevention of the spread of COVID-19 is advised among HCWs to improve their knowledge. Hence, it will strengthen the health workforce in the battle against COVID-19.