Evaluation of paramedical student's awareness towards COVID-19 in Thi-Qar

Abstract

Introduction: To limit the COVID-19 pandemic, several countries have implemented effective procedures. However, it has been noted that an individual’s attitude, knowledge, and practices concerning COVID-19 plays a major role in determining how much they will follow the established preventive and control measures. This study aimed to evaluate the awareness level of Iraqi paramedical student's regarding Covid-19. Methods: This study conducted an online survey of (118) paramedical students over a two-week period using piloted and validated questionnaire. Data were entered into SPSS version 21 for analysis. Contingency Coefficients test was used to estimate of the association between student's responses and socio-demographical characteristics variables. Results: Of the participants, (55%) students provided correct answers, indicating moderate awareness. Only (35%) of the sampled students could correctly define “close contact.” Further, (65%) students knew about the different infection control measures such as respiratory hygiene, cough etiquette, rapid triage, and the importance of a well-ventilated and separate waiting area for patients presumed to have COVID-19. Most students (85%) also knew about clinical management, including immediately executing recommended infection prevention and control measures as well as managing complications in a supportive manner.