Assessment of knowledge, attitudes and practices of healthcare workers on occupational HIV post-exposure prophylaxis at a Zimbabwean referral hospital

Abstract

Objectives : Occupational exposure to blood and body fluids is a serious concern for healthcare workers, and presents a major risk for the transmission of blood-borne infections such as HIV. The prevention of exposures to blood and body fluids is the primary means of preventing occupationally acquired human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection; however it has been found that the appropriate use of post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) is important in the prevention of HIV infection in exposed healthcare workers. The aims of this study were to assess the level of knowledge, attitudes and practices of healthcare workers at Parirenyatwa Hospital on occupational HIV post-exposure prophylaxis. Methods : A cross-sectional survey using a self-administered structured questionnaire was conducted from mid-January 2012 up to the end of February 2012. Systematic random sampling was used to select individuals to participate in the study. Data was entered into and analyzed using Microsoft Excel. Results : A total of 164 questionnaires were distributed and 131 were returned giving a response rate of 80%. The results of the study show that majority of the participants had poor knowledge of occupational HIV PEP. 65% of the respondents scored less than 50% in the section on knowledge, which was regarded as poor knowledge. Only 5% of the respondents scored above 75% which was regarded as good knowledge. Participants were found to have a positive attitude towards HIV PEP. The majority (93%) of respondents expressed willingness to undergo PEP in case of exposure. Out of the 49 respondents who reported a previous exposure to potentially infectious body fluids, only 45% sought PEP. Conclusion : The study found that there are inadequate levels of knowledge on occupational HIV PEP among HCWs at Parirenyatwa Hospital. Attitude was found to be positive; however, the actual rate of PEP uptake among those who were exposed was low.