Abstract
Background: Most patients with COVID-19 experience mild illness which can be managed in a home environment. This study was done to assess the perception, awareness and practices regarding home-based management of COVID-19 among the general population in India. Methods: This cross-sectional study was done in May and June 2021. Data were collected using a Google Form. Results: Mean age of the 294 participants was 36.6 ± 12.1 years. Of these participants, 45 (15.3%) were diagnosed with COVID-19 anytime in the past. Among them, 37 (82.2%) underwent home-based management for COVID-19. Monitoring of body temperature and oxygen saturation was performed just once a day by 15.2% and 5.9% of COVID-19 patients respectively. Self-medication was practiced by 11 (29.7%) patients. Disposable face masks were worn by 23 (62.2%) patients beyond eight hours of continuous usage. The disposable type of face mask was not discarded despite becoming wet and cloth masks were worn by eight (21.6%) patients. Disposable gloves were only worn by 14 (37.8%) care providers of COVID-19 patients. As many as 10 (27%) patients were tested for COVID-19 after completion of home isolation. Awareness of all mild symptoms and signs of the disease were known to only 19 (6.5%) participants. Normal oxygen saturation in the blood was known to 40 (13.6%) participants. Just six (2%) participants were aware of the correct duration of home isolation in a symptomatic patient with COVID-19. The recommended duration of hand washing with soap and water was known to 102 (34.7%) participants. As many as 17.4% and 32.7% participants were not confident in using thermometer and pulse oximeter respectively. Conclusion: Practices, awareness and perception regarding certain essential measures in COVID-19 home management were found lacking among a number of participants. These need to be addressed by suitable training programs among the general population.
Highlights
The coronavirus (COVID-19) is continuing as a pandemic throughout the world
Practices, awareness and perception regarding certain essential measures in COVID-19 home management were found lacking among a number of participants
A study carried out in China reported that anxiety disorders and depression are common among COVID-19 patients managed in hospital settings.[1]
Summary
The coronavirus (COVID-19) is continuing as a pandemic throughout the world. India is currently recovering from the second wave and is on the verge of the start of a third wave in the months to come (https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/). Most patients with COVID-19 experience mild illness and can be managed in the home setting (MoH & FW, 2021 (https://www.mohfw.gov.in/); Public Health Unit, 2020 (https://www.un.org/)). A study carried out in China reported that anxiety disorders and depression are common among COVID-19 patients managed in hospital settings.[1] A study in the USA reported that anxiety disorders were common among COVID-19 patients but were self-rated as severe.[2] Isolation of patients in a home environment with the support of family members may help to alleviate these psychological problems. Most patients with COVID-19 experience mild illness which can be managed in a home environment. Disposable face masks were worn by 23 (62.2%) patients beyond eight hours of continuous usage. Just six (2%) participants were aware of the correct duration of home isolation in a symptomatic
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