Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of Antibiotic Allergy Testing Among Nurses in Sulaimani, Iraq

Abstract

Background: One of the major causes of iatrogenic mortality and morbidity is drug allergy. Drug allergies continue to be a major problem for medical professionals right now. For the precise diagnosis of both immediate and delayed medication hypersensitivity, intradermal sensitivity testing is crucial.Objectives: to assess the nurse’s knowledge, attitude and, practice on intradermal method of antibiotic sensitivity test in Sulaimani, Iraq.Materials and Methods: A quantitative, descriptive, and observational design was used to collect information from nurses at Shar Teaching Hospital from various hospital departments. A convenient sampling method was employed for all 90 nurses from January 2022 to August 2022. Data collection was carried out through a structured interview questionnaire aimed at gathering the nurses’ general characteristics, a nurses’ knowledge questionnaire, and an observational checklist to assess the nurses’ practices regarding the Antibiotic Allergy Test.Results: The results indicated a positive attitude and a moderate knowledge of the antibiotic allergy test. A significant correlation existed between attitude scores and age (p=0.03) and degree (p=0.01) but not between demographic characteristics and general knowledge (p>0.05). However, prior research revealed a significant correlation between knowledge and attitude and the training program.Conclusion: The knowledge and attitude of nurses about intradermal testing were moderate. To help nurses better comprehend and fill in the gaps in the practice of antibiotic allergy testing, extensive training and education are therefore required.