Knowledge and practice of healthcare providers as regards routine children vaccination in primary healthcare facilities of Quewisna District, Menoufia Governorate

Abstract

Objectives The aim of this study was to assess the knowledge and practice of healthcare providers (HCPs) as regards the safe practice during routine children vaccination in primary healthcare facilities. Background Primary vaccine failures can occur after high immunization coverage has been achieved. Healthcare workers' knowledge and practices are influential factors in preventing vaccine failures. Adequate knowledge and practices in the cold chain system, as well as handling and administration of different vaccines, are important to maintain the potency of vaccines and effectiveness of immunization. Participants and methods This cross-sectional study included 140 HCPs and 14 primary healthcare units and one center in Quewisna District, Menoufia, Egypt. A self-administered questionnaire and observational checklist were applied to collect data. The questionnaire assessed the knowledge of HCPs about the storage, handling, administration, scheduling, doses, routes, and contraindications of the different vaccines routinely used for children under 5 years of age in primary healthcare facilities. The checklist assessed the practice of HCPs as regards cold chain, room layout, preparation for vaccination session, and general and specific practice related to each vaccine. Results The total knowledge score was higher among high nurses (nurses with nursing bachelor degree) and HCPs who received training courses. The postvaccination practice was poor compared with prevaccination and during-vaccination practice. Conclusion According to these findings, the knowledge of HCPs as regards all vaccines is satisfactory, except for Hib vaccine. A regular training course to improve the HCPs' knowledge about immunization is highly recommended.