Knowledge Of Health Care Workers Research Articles

Knowledge, awareness and practices of healthcare workers regarding antimicrobial use, resistance and stewardship in Zambia: a multi-facility cross-sectional study.

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a threat to public health globally. Despite its consequences, there is little information about the knowledge, awareness, and practices towards AMR among healthcare workers (HCWs). Therefore, this study assessed the knowledge, awareness and practices regarding antimicrobial use (AMU), AMR and antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) among HCWs who are involved in the implementation of AMS activities across eight hospitals in Zambia. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 64 HCWs from October to December 2023 using a semi-structured questionnaire. Data were analysed using IBM SPSS version 25.0. Of the 64 HCWs, 59.4% were females, 60.9% were aged between 25 and 34 years, 37.5% were nurses, 18.7% were pharmacists, 17.2% were medical doctors and only one was a microbiologist. Overall, 75% of the HCWs had good knowledge, 84% were highly aware and 84% had good practices regarding AMU, AMR and AMS. Most of the HCWs (90.6%) responded that they had a multidisciplinary AMS team at their hospitals and were implementing the use of the WHO AWaRe classification of antibiotics. This study found good knowledge levels, high awareness and good practices regarding AMU, AMR and AMS among HCWs who were involved in the implementation of AMS activities in hospitals in Zambia. Additionally, most hospitals have been conducting AMS training and implementing the use of the WHO AWaRe classification of antibiotics. However, there is still a need to address some identified gaps in AMU and AMR through the strengthening of AMS activities in hospitals.

Implementation of a clinical breast exam and referral program in a rural district of Pakistan

BackgroundThe role of clinical breast examination (CBE) for early detection of breast cancer is extremely important in lower-middle-income countries (LMICs) where access to breast imaging is limited. Our study aimed to describe the outcomes of a community outreach breast education, home CBE and referral program for early recognition of breast abnormalities and improvement of breast cancer awareness in a rural district of Pakistan.MethodsEight health care workers (HCW) and a gynecologist were educated on basic breast cancer knowledge and trained to create breast cancer awareness and conduct CBE in the community. They were then deployed in the Dadu district of Pakistan where they carried out home visits to perform CBE in the community. Breast cancer awareness was assessed in the community using a standardized questionnaire and standard educational intervention was performed. Clinically detectable breast lesions were identified during home CBE and women were referred to the study gynecologist to confirm the presence of clinical abnormalities. Those confirmed to have clinical abnormalities were referred for imaging. Follow-up home visits were carried out to assess reasons for non-compliance in patients who did not follow-through with the gynecologist appointment or prescribed imaging and re-enforce the need for follow-up.ResultsBasic breast cancer knowledge of HCWs and study gynecologist improved post-intervention. HCWs conducted home CBE in 8757 women. Of these, 149 were warranted a CBE by a physician (to avoid missing an abnormality), while 20 were found to have a definitive lump by HCWs, all were referred to the study gynecologist (CBE checkpoint). Only 50% (10/20) of those with a suspected lump complied with the referral to the gynecologist, where 90% concordance was found between their CBEs. Follow-up home visits were conducted in 119/169 non-compliant patients. Major reasons for non-compliance were a lack of understanding of the risks and financial constraints. A significant improvement was observed in the community’s breast cancer knowledge at the follow-up visits using the standardized post-test.ConclusionsBasic and focused education of HCWs can increase their knowledge and dispel myths. Hand-on structured training can enable HCWs to perform CBE. Community awareness is essential for patient compliance and for early-detection, diagnosis, and treatment.

Mid-level healthcare workers knowledge on non-communicable diseases in Tanzania: a district-level pre-and post-training assessment

IntroductionOver the past two decades, Tanzania’s burden of non-communicable diseases has grown disproportionately, but limited resources are still prioritized. A trained human resource for health is urgently needed to combat these diseases. However, continuous medical education for NCDs is scarce. This paper reports on the mid-level healthcare workers knowledge on NCDs. We assessed the knowledge to measure the effectiveness of the training conducted during the initiation of a Package for Essential Management of Severe NCDs (PEN Plus) in rural district hospitals in Tanzania.MethodsThe training was given to 48 healthcare employees from Dodoma Region’s Kondoa Town Council District Hospital. For a total of five (5) days, a fundamental course on NCDs featured in-depth interactive lectures and practical workshops. Physicians from Tanzania’s higher education institutions, tertiary university hospitals, research institutes, and medical organizations served as trainers. Before and after the training, a knowledge assessment comprising 28 questions was administered. Descriptive data analysis to describe the characteristics of the specific knowledge on physiology, diagnosis and therapy of diabetes mellitus, rheumatic fever, heart disease, and sickle cell disease was done using Stata version 17 (STATA Corp Inc., TX, USA).ResultsComplete assessment data for 42 out of the 48 participants was available. Six participants did not complete the training and the assessment. The mean age of participants was 36.9 years, and slightly above half (52%) were above 35 years. Two-thirds (61.9%) were female, and about half (45%) were nurses. The majority had the experience of working for more than 5 years, and the average was 9.4 years (+/- 8.4 years). Overall, the trainees’ average scores improved after the training (12.79 vs. 16.05, p < 0.0001) out of 28 possible scores. Specifically, trainees’ average scores were better in treatment than in diagnosis, except for sickle cell disease (1.26 vs. 1.83). Most were not able to diagnose rheumatic heart disease (47.6% able) compared to diabetes mellitus (54.8% able) or sickle cell disease (64.3% able) at baseline. The proportion of trainees with adequate knowledge of the treatment of sickle cell disease and diabetes mellitus was 35% and 38.1%, respectively, and there was a non-statistical difference after training. Those working for less than 5 years had a higher proportion of adequate knowledge (30.8%) compared to their more experienced colleagues (6.9%). After the training, participants’ knowledge of NCDs increased by three times (i.e., aPR 3, 95% CI = 1.1, 1.5, and 6.0).Conclusion and recommendationsPEN Plus training improved the knowledge of healthcare workers at Kondoa Town Council District Hospital. Training is especially needed among nurses and those with a longer duration of work. Continuing education for human resources for health on the management of NCDs is highly recommended in this setting.

Facebook Challenge: Integration of Breastfeeding for Sick Babies and E-Training to Enhance the Knowledge of Healthcare Workers

Background Although the Thailand Breastfeeding Center has supported breastfeeding for sick babies since 2014, it has been found that breastfeeding in infants is still 40% lower than national targets. Objective This research aimed to test the effectiveness of online breastfeeding training through social media to further the knowledge of healthcare workers. Methods A quasi-experimental research study of a sample group of 60 workers was conducted between the neonatal step-down unit and the postpartum care unit. Research instruments consisted of breastfeeding e-training through a Facebook platform, knowledge testing on the breastfeeding of sick newborns, an online training satisfaction assessment form, data analysis by frequency and percentage, averaging, and testing by t-test, chi-square, and the Fisher exact test. Results The mean and standard deviation of knowledge before training in the experiment and control group were 22.40±2.11and 23.43±3.32, respectively. After the intervention, the experimental group was 31.93±1.98, and the control group was 24.06±2.14. It was found that the average knowledge score pertaining to the breastfeeding of high-risk neonates in the group that had undergone online training was higher than the group that had undergone ordinary supervision (p&lt; 0.001). Conclusion It can be seen that asynchronous e-training may be one alternative for the knowledge development of healthcare workers in promoting breastfeeding for families with sick newborns.

Epilepsy Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices of Front-Line Healthcare Workers in the City of Conakry

Epilepsy is a serious brain disease that affects people of all ages. Evaluating healthcare staff is a key factor in improving the care of people with epilepsy. We studied the knowledge, attitudes and practices of healthcare personnel.

Blood and body fluids exposure (BBFE): knowledge, attitudes, and practices of healthcare workers involved in plastic and reconstructive surgery in Togo

Introduction: Infectious risk among healthcare workers (HCW) is a major public health issue, especially in developing countries. This study aimed to assess the awareness and frequency of blood and body fluids exposure (BBFE) among HCW involved in plastic surgery care activities at the Sylvanus Olympio Teaching Hospital (SOTH). Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among HCW involved in plastic and reconstructive activity in the SOTH from July 1st to September 30th, 2021. The study assessed knowledge, attitude, and practices of HCW in face of BBFE using an anonymous selfadministered questionnaire. Results: A total of 101 participants were included (participation rate 91.8%). There was a male predominance; Male/Female ratio was 3.04. The mean age was 35.5 ± 9.4 years [18-65 years]. More than half of the responders (68.32%) had less than 5 years’ professional experience. Nearly half (48.5%) of the participants already had at least one BBFE. Sting (84.2%), blood splashes (61.4%), or skin cuts (54.5%) were the main mechanisms of occurrence. HIV was the most known hazard mentioned by 99/101 (98%) of the participants followed by hepatitis B (91/101, 90%), hepatitis C (71/101, 70%). No participant mentioned the risk of syphilis, Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), or COVID-19 infection. The approach towards the relative measures to be taken including accident declaration were unsatisfactory. Conclusion: The results of this study highlighted the seriousness of BBFE among HCW involved in plastic and reconstructive activities in the SOTH. There is a need for training and information to increase the awareness and knowledge among this specific staff and by extension among all the technical staff in the SOTH. Introduction : Les risques d’infection chez les professionnels de santé constituent un problème de santé publique particulièrement dans les pays en voie de développement. Cette étude a eu pour but d’évaluer les connaissances, attitudes et pratiques par rapport aux accidents avec exposition au sang ou aux produits sanguins (AES) du personnel impliqué dans les activités de chirurgie plastique et reconstructive au Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Sylvanus Olympio (CHU SO). Méthode : Une étude transversale a été menée auprès du personnel impliqué dans les activités de chirurgie plastique et reconstructrice du CHU SO dans la période du 1er Juillet au 30 septembre 2021. Les connaissances, attitudes, et pratiques du personnel face aux AES a été évaluées par un questionnaire rempli de façon anonyme. Résultats : Un nombre de 101/110 participants (91,8%) ont répondu au questionnaire et ont été inclus dans l’étude. Il y avait une prédominance masculine avec une sex-ration de 3/1. L’âge moyen des participants était de 35,5 ± 9,4 ans avec des extrêmes de 18 et 65 ans. Plus de la moitié des participants (68,32%) avait une expérience professionnelle de moins de 5 ans. Presque la moitié des participants (48,5%) ont déjà été victime au moins une fois d’accident avec exposition au sang ou aux liquides biologiques. Les piqûres (84,2%), les éclaboussements de sang (61,4%), les lacérations cutanées (54,5%) étaient les mécanismes les plus fréquents. L’infection à HIV était le risque le plus connu mentionné par 99/101 (98%) des participants suivis de l’infection à hépatite B (91/101, 90%), et hépatite C (71/101, 70%). Aucun des participants n’a mentionné le risque de contamination par la syphilis, le Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), ou la COVID-19. Les connaissances des premières mesures à prendre ainsi que la déclaration de l’accident étaient insuffisantes chez la majorité des participants. Conclusion : Les résultats de cette étude montrent un déficit de connaissance d’attitudes et de pratiques du personnel impliqué dans les activités de chirurgie plastique et reconstructrice au CHU SO. Il en sort la nécessité de former ce personnel et par extension tout le personnel du CHU SO sur les AES.

Urinary catheterisation among nurses in Sweden: A survey on routines and guideline adherence

AbstractIntroduction and ObjectivesBladder catheterisation is a common and invasive procedure with guidelines that can prevent or minimize associated complications. However, healthcare workers often do not follow these guidelines. Healthcare systems' strategies, policies and practices which support quality of care could affect the level of guideline adherence. This could be explored by studying adherence in a high‐performing healthcare system with extensive monitoring of health outcomes, such as Sweden. Moreover, there is a lack of relevant literature about the knowledge, attitudes and practices of healthcare workers regarding CAUTI. This study therefore aims to investigate how nurses in Sweden perform bladder catheterisation and identify potential ways to improve adherence to guidelines in order to decrease complications.Materials and MethodsA cross‐sectional survey was performed between the 21st and 29th of May 2020. A survey including questions on supervision during bladder catheterisation, maintenance of sterility, accidental urine spillage, and potential advantages of a urinary catheter with an integrated valve was distributed through social media channels to Swedish nurses. Participants were anonymous and no personal data was collected. The data was tabulated and analysed using descriptive statistics (Microsoft Excel).ResultsA total of 910 nurses responded to the survey. Respondents worked across several settings, and 76.1% worked within surgical, internal medicine, prehospital, geriatrics or primary care clinics. Respondents had various levels of experience in placing catheters, with 40.3% having inserted less than 50 catheters, and 31.5% having inserted more than 100.54.9% reported that someone had checked that they followed guidelines during catheter insertion. A majority (66.5%) either often or sometimes received assistance during insertion, with only 9.3% always receiving help. Only 9.9% reported always being able to maintain sterility during insertion.58.6% reported inadvertently spilling urine on the material (protective sheet, diaper) 1–5 times during their last 10 catheter insertions, 24.8% reported spilling on the bed or linen, and 15.7% on themselves, the patient or other healthcare staff.When asked about the potential advantages of a urinary catheter with an integrated valve, the most significant advantage cited was the reduced risk of urine leakage (63%), followed by the absence of stress from not having to connect a urine bag or plug (52.1%). 96% of respondents see at least one advantage in such a device.ConclusionsNearly half of nurses have not been audited concerning guideline adherence during bladder catheterisation. Only 10% are able to always maintain sterility, and it is common to spill urine during the catheterization process. Virtually all nurses see at least one advantage in a urinary catheter with an integrated valve.

Knowledge, attitudes, and practices of Jamaican healthcare workers on nosocomial infection control

Objectives The emergence of deadly infections such as methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and COVID-19 ( SARS-CoV-2) highlights the need for effective infection control (IC) procedures in healthcare facilities. The aim of the study was to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of healthcare workers (HCWs) on IC procedures. Methods A cross-sectional survey was conducted among HCWs in western Jamaica from May to August 2015. A questionnaire based on the Jamaican Health Facilities Infection and Control Policies and Procedures Manual was used to collect data on staff training in IC, and their KAP of IC. Summary statistics, ANOVA, and multiple linear regression were applied for data analyses. Results Among 227 participants, the mean knowledge scores were statistically higher among the younger HCWs, Physicians/Nurses, and those in clinical units. Older HCWs, non-physicians/nurses, non-clinical unit workers, HCWs at Western Regional Hospital A, and those who received ongoing IC training scored higher on attitude. The practice scores were significantly correlated with the attitude scores but not the knowledge scores. The attitude score was a significant predictor for IC practices. Conclusions Six knowledge and three attitude variables were significant predictors of IC practices that the Western Regional Health Authority Officials can use to implement measures to improve IC practices among HCWs.

Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of Healthcare Workers in Ekiti State, Nigeria on Prevention of Cervical Cancer

Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of Healthcare Workers in Ekiti State, Nigeria on Prevention of Cervical Cancer

Perceptions, attitudes, and willingness of healthcare and frontline workers to participate in an Ebola vaccine trial in Uganda

BackgroundUnderstanding the knowledge, perception and attitudes towards Ebola vaccines is an important factor in ensuring future use of these vaccines. A qualitative methods study embedded in an Ebola vaccine immunogenicity and safety trial (NCT04028349) was conducted to explore the knowledge and perceptions of healthcare (HCWs) and frontline workers (FLWs), about Ebola vaccines and their willingness to participate or recommend participation in Uganda. MethodWe carried out focus group discussions and semi-structured interviews before and after vaccination, with 70 HCWs and FLWs who consented to participate in the trial, and in the qualitative component, from August to September 2019. Data were analysed using thematic content analysis. ResultsRespondents showed good knowledge about Ebola and the vaccines in general, and had wide access to information through several channels, including the study team. On prevention, particular attention was given to effective communication within health facilities. Misconceptions were mainly around route of transmission, animal origin and types of vaccines. Previous fears were based on rumours circulating in the community, mainly about the presence of the virus in the vaccine, side effects and intention to harm (e.g. by “the whites”), ultimately insisting on transparency, trust and involvement of local leaders. Acceptability of participation was motivated by the need to protect self and others, and the willingness to advance research. Majority were willing to recommend participation to their community. ConclusionsOverall, information sharing leads to a better understanding and acceptance of vaccine trials and a positive vaccination experience can be a deciding factor in the acceptance of others. Particular attention should be paid to involving the community in addressing misconceptions and fears, while ensuring that participants have access to vaccination sites in terms of transport, and that they are properly accommodated at the study site including staying for a reasonable period of time.

Knowledge and Skills in Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation and Effect of Simulation Training on it among Healthcare Workers in a Tertiary Care Center in India.

High-quality cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is associated with improved patient outcomes, but healthcare workers (HCWs) may be frequently undertrained. This study aimed to assess baseline knowledge and skills among HCWs about basic and advanced life support and the effect of simulation-based training on it. It was a single-center prospective quasi-interventional study among resident doctors and nurses at a Tertiary Center in New Delhi, India. A questionnaire-based assessment was done to assess baseline knowledge. The participants then underwent simulation-based training followed by questionnaire-based knowledge assessment and skill assessment. A repeat questionnaire-based assessment was done 6 months post-training to assess knowledge retention. A total of 82 HCWs (54 doctors and 28 nurses) were enrolled. The participants scored 22.28 ± 6.06 out of 35 (63.65%) in the pre-training knowledge assessment, with low scores in post-cardiac arrest care, advanced life support, and defibrillation. After the training, there was a significant rise in scores to 28.32 ± 4.08 out of 35 (80.9%) (p < 0.01). The retention of knowledge at 6 months was 68.87% (p < 0.01). The participants scored 92.61 ± 4.75% marks in skill assessment with lower scores in chest compressions and team leadership roles. There was a positive correlation (r = 0.35) between knowledge and skills scores (p < 0.01). There is a progressive decrease in baseline knowledge of HCWs with the further steps in the adult chain of survival. The simulation training program had a positive impact on the knowledge of HCWs. The training programs should focus on defibrillation, advanced life support, post-cardiac arrest care, and leadership roles. Agarwal A, Baitha U, Ranjan P, Swarnkar NK, Singh GP, Baidya DK, et al. Knowledge and Skills in Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation and Effect of Simulation Training on it among Healthcare Workers in a Tertiary Care Center in India. Indian J Crit Care Med 2024;28(4):336-342.

Knowledge of Healthcare Workers Regarding Road Traffic Child Safety in South Bačka District, Serbia.

Healthcare workers (HCW) can have an important role in educating parents about child road safety, but research on the topic shows that they usually do not have adequate knowledge. Thus, the aim of our study was to analyze their knowledge in the field of child road safety. The cross-sectional study was conducted among HCW from South Bačka district, Serbia, using a specially created questionnaire for assessing knowledge on road traffic injuries in children. The research involved the participation of 317 healthcare workers (86 physicians and 231 nurses). Healthcare workers from primary healthcare made up almost 70% of all respondents, followed by those from tertiary (21.8%) and secondary (11.3%) level institutions. The average percentage of correct answers on the knowledge test was 74.3% (mean=22.3, SD=4.0). Out of all respondents, HCWs employed in the paediatrics department had a significantly higher percentage of correct answers at 77.7% (mean=23.3, SD=3.4) compared to other health workers at 73% (mean=21.9, SD=4.1) (p=0.002). Association analysis demonstrated that HCW employed at paediatric departments on average scored 1.37 (95% CI: 0.40-2.33, p=0.006) points higher in comparison with other HCW. This research demonstrated an unsatisfactory level of knowledge on child road safety by HCW, and the variability across different question domains, which underlines the need for continuous educations in order to improve their knowledge. Our results may serve in planning additional public health measures and can provide a reference for future studies.

Compliance with infection prevention and control standard precautions and factors associated with noncompliance among healthcare workers working in public hospitals in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

BackgroundStandard Precautions (SPs) are the minimal infection prevention and control (IPC) measures that apply to all patient care activities at all times, regardless of whether the patient has a suspected or proven disease, in any place where healthcare service is provided. These evidence-based practices protect healthcare workers (HCWs) from infection while preventing the spread of infectious agents among patients, visitors, and the environment.ObjectivesAssessed compliance of HCWs working in public hospitals in Addis Ababa to infection prevention and control SPs, and factors associated with noncompliance.MethodsIn a hospital-based cross-sectional study, 422 HCWs were recruited from nine public hospitals in Addis Ababa using a stratified random sampling technique. Data were collected using self-administered questionnaires, entered into a computer using Epi data, and analyzed using SPSS version 25. The association between the independent and the outcome variables was investigated using logistic regression. Odd ratios with corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CI) were used as measures of the strength of the association between the outcome and the explanatory variables. A p-value below 5% was considered an indicator of statistical significance.ResultsThe level of knowledge of HCWs about IPC and SPs was 51.9% and 36.49% of the respondents were compliant with SPs. Receiving IPC Training [Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR) = 1.81, 95% CI 1.06, 3.09], knowing SPs [AOR = 3.46, 95% CI = 1.83, 6.54], presence of a mechanism in the hospital to enforce the IPC practices [AOR = 1.71 95% CI = 1.01, 2.89], and availability of cleaning and disinfection chemicals in the hospital [AOR = 2.18, 95%CI = 1.15, 4.13] were significantly associated with the HCWs’ compliance with SPs.ConclusionCompliance with IPC standard precautions of HCWs in public hospitals of Addis Ababa is suboptimal. Working in medical units, less work experience, lack of training, poor knowledge, absence of a mechanism to enforce adherence, and inadequate resources are independent predictors for non-compliance of the HCWs.

Knowledge, attitudes, and practices of vaccinators about expanded programs on immunization: a cross-sectional study.

The periodic evaluation of knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of healthcare workers, including vaccinators, concerning expanded programs on immunization (EPI) is very crucial for a better healthcare system. This study was carried out to assess the KAP of vaccinators about the EPI, including cold storage of vaccines and their practices related to vaccine cold chain management. A cross-sectional study was conducted from January 2022 to June 2022 among registered vaccinators in the twin cities (Islamabad and Rawalpindi) of Pakistan. A structured self-administered questionnaire (English and Urdu) was developed as per the Pakistan national EPI policy and strategic guidelines 2022 and World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines, as well as from earlier studies (Cronbach's alpha value of 0.734). The final questionnaire consisted of closed-ended questions in four sections, including sociodemographic information, knowledge (with dichotomous variables of yes/no), attitudes (with a 5-point Likert scale ranging from strongly agree to strongly disagree), and handling of vaccines and cold chain management. Completed questionnaires were entered into Microsoft Excel and then imported into SPSS version 25 for statistical analysis. A total of 186 vaccinators completely filled out their questionnaires, with a 97.9% response rate. More than half of the participants (57.5%) had no training related to EPI. Most of the respondents had a moderate to poor level of knowledge regarding EPI. The overall attitude was positive, and 57% of the participants strongly agreed that the national immunization programs can significantly contribute to the decrease in morbidity and mortality rates among children. In the current study, participants showed good practices toward EPI, vaccine storage, and cold chain management. The majority (93.5%) of the participants checked the expiry of vaccines at regular intervals to maintain the first expiry first out (FEFO) in their healthcare setting. In conclusion, most of the vaccinators had moderate to poor knowledge, a positive attitude, and good practices toward EPI, vaccine cold storage, and cold chain management. Lack of training among vaccinators on EPI was also observed. These findings have suggested that continuous training, education, and regular supervision of vaccinators in EPI are important for maximum immunization effectiveness and coverage.

Insights of Healthcare Workers and Community Members on Mental Health Perception and Practices in Meru County, Kenya

Mental health is a neglected field in many low and middle-income countries, such as Kenya, where information on the prevalence of mental health conditions is scarce. This problem is aggravated by an uneven distribution of mental health service providers and widespread ignorance and stigma around mental illness in the general population. The study in Meru County, Kenya, aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of healthcare workers and community members regarding mental health. The study, a descriptive cross-sectional survey, involved 535 community members and 109 healthcare workers, employing both qualitative and quantitative methods. Data was collected through household surveys, key informant interviews, and focus group discussions and analysed using univariate frequencies, descriptive statistics, and thematic analysis. The study revealed that 39% of community members had a family member with a mental health condition, while 68% of HCWs had been diagnosed with such conditions. Mental illness was often attributed to supernatural causes, genetics, substance abuse, and socio-economic pressures. A significant gap was found in the availability of counselling services in health facilities, with only 29.4% of HCWs reporting their presence. The perception of the affordability and accessibility of mental health services varied greatly between HCWs and community members. Additionally, while HCWs reported the availability of free medication, community members experienced shortages. The study also noted differing attitudes towards patients with mental illness in terms of respect and dignity and highlighted the use of traditional healers and religious leaders for mental health issues. This study contributes valuable insights into the state of mental health in Kenya, highlighting the high burden of mental illness, limited availability of services, and prevalent myths and misconceptions. It underscores the need for improved healthcare worker training, public awareness, and stronger health systems to address mental health issues effectively in Kenya and similar rural environments

Antibiotic resistance in Sudan: assessing the knowledge and practices of healthcare workers in Khartoum.

Antibiotic resistance (ABR) is a major public health issue, associated with increased patient morbidity and mortality globally, with significantly higher rates in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Assessment of contextual factors, such as information, education, infrastructure and regulations are important for developing local solutions against ABR. To determine the knowledge and practices of healthcare workers (HCWs) towards ABR in hospitals in Sudan. A survey was conducted in three different hospitals in Khartoum, Sudan from February to December 2020. HCWs of different specialties and expertise were invited to participate. Data were descriptively analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). ABR was identified as a big challenge by 89% of 345 HCWs who participated. The results show that 79% of doctors don't rely on the clinical microbiology laboratory (CML) results for antibiotic prescription or clinical decision-making. Sixty percent of HCWs agreed there are infection prevention and control (IPC) guidelines in their hospital, but 74% of them don't have access to them, and infrequently receive relevant IPC training. Furthermore, HCWs obtain ABR information from other colleagues informally, not through local data or reports. Despite adequate knowledge of ABR locally, there are significant contextual technical challenges facing HCWs in Sudan, such as availability of policies and accurate data from CMLs. The results indicate a poor link between HCWs and the CMLs for infection management and it is essential to improve communication between the different hospital departments with regard to ABR transmission, and ensure the effectiveness of local IPC policies based on locally available data.

ASSESSING KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE, AND PRACTICE OF HEALTHCARE WORKERS REGARDING MEDICAL WASTE MANAGEMENT AT DISTRICT JAMSHORO, SINDH

This study aimed to evaluate the waste management knowledge, attitudes, and practices of three groups of healthcare workers: doctors, nurses, and paramedical staff. A cross-sectional study involved doctors, nurses, and technicians at the National Institute of Cardiovascular Disease (NICVD) and the Syed Abdullah Shah Institute of Medical and Health Science (SASIMS) in Shahwan Sharif, District Jamshoro, Sindh. A convenient non-probability sampling technique was used to select the study participants. A total of 370 healthcare workers consented to be part of the study. The data was obtained through the administration of questionnaires. Data were collected and compiled using Microsoft Excel and analyzed using SPSS version 22.0. This study had 39 (63.2%) males and 34 (36.8 %%) females. The median age of participants was 30.5 years, with a mean of 33.12 ± 8.2 years. The majority of the participants were paramedics (42.7%). They were followed by doctors (34.3%) and nurses (23%). The knowledge of healthcare workers indicated that there was a significant association between the waste categories (p = 0.02), type of waste (p = 0.00), color coding differentiation (p = 0.01), hospital policies (p = 0.00), infection control department (p = 0.03), risk toward healthcare workers (p = 0.00), human anatomical waste (p = 0.01), color-coding container used for wasted sharps and infectious solid waste (p = 0.00), and type of color-coding container (p = 0.00) This study highlights the discrepancies and inadequacies of knowledge and practice of proper healthcare waste management among healthcare workers. Healthcare workers with adequate knowledge were paramedics, doctors, and nurses. All healthcare personnel should have medical waste management guidelines ready and easily accessible.

Knowledge, Attitude and Associated Factors of Monkeypox Infection Among Healthcare Workers in Injibara General Hospital, Northwest Ethiopia.

Fighting health threats, especially the rise of new infectious diseases, is one of the main responsibilities of healthcare workers. However, their knowledge and attitudes toward monkeypox have not yet been assessed. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitude, and factors associated with monkeypox infection among healthcare workers at Injibara General Hospital, Northwest Ethiopia. Institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted from December 1-30, 2022. Data were collected using a structured self-administered questionnaire. A simple random sampling technique was used to select study participants. Descriptive statistics and multivariable logistic regression analyses were computed. The degree of association was interpreted using an odds ratio with a 95% confidence interval and a p-value < 0.05. Among the 200 healthcare workers who participated, 38.5% (95% CI: 32.5%-45%) and 62% (95% CI: 55-68.5%) had good knowledge and positive attitudes regarding monkeypox respectively. Having a master's degree or above (AOR = 11.25: 95% CI: 2.03-62.33), being vaccinated against COVID-19 (AOR = 2.60: 95% CI: 1.37-4.94), and having access to information about monkeypox (AOR = 3.37: 95% CI: 1.33-8.50) were the factors associated with good knowledge. Furthermore, a positive attitude was significantly associated with being 30 years of age or older (AOR = 2.95: 95% CI: 1.55-5.60) and having access to information about monkeypox (AOR = 4.14: 95% CI: 2.06, 8.30). Both good knowledge and positive attitudes were relatively low among healthcare workers. Factors such as age, education level, COVID-19 vaccination status, and access to information about monkeypox were significantly associated with the knowledge and attitude of healthcare workers. To enhance the knowledge and attitude of healthcare workers, hospitals should consider offering educational upgrades, hosting educational events like seminars, conferences, webinars, and campaigns, and ensuring comprehensive coverage of the topic in medical curricula.

Enhancing the notification system for surveillance of infectious diseases in Qatar during the FIFA World Cup 2022: project overview

BackgroundIn 2022, the Surveillance Department of the Ministry of Public Health in Qatar adopted an integrated project called the Notification Enhancement Project (NEP) to enhance the infectious disease notification system. Efficient surveillance and notification promote early alerts and allow immediate interference in reducing morbidity and mortality from outbreaks. The project was designed to improve the knowledge, attitudes, practices, and notification processes of healthcare workers in Qatar by increasing their reporting rates.MethodsThe strategy for comprehensively enhancing notifications was based on the observation and evaluation of the current notification system, the implementation of interventions, and post-evaluation follow-up. To implement the project, we relied on three aspects: effective methods used in previous relevant studies through a literature review, feedback received from healthcare workers, and suggestions from public health surveillance experts from the Ministry of Public Health, Qatar. A preassessment was conducted through an online survey by the Ministry of Public Health. The effectiveness of the different interventions was assessed by analyzing the data of notified patients reported through the Disease Surveillance and Reporting Electronic System. Pre- and postintervention assessments were performed by comparing the percentage of patients notified by healthcare providers with that of patients confirmed by healthcare providers in the laboratory to compare the notification rates over three time periods between January and December 2022.ResultsThere was significant improvement in the infectious disease notification process. A comparison before and after the implementation of the interventions revealed an increase in the communicable disease notification rate among healthcare workers. Pre- and postintervention data were compared. Infectious disease notification activities by healthcare workers increased from 2.5% between January and May 2022 to 41.4% between November and December 2022.ConclusionThis study highlights the efficiency of different interventions in correcting the underreporting of infectious diseases. Our findings suggest that implementing the Notification Enhancement Project significantly improves notification rates. We recommend continuing interventions through constant education and training, maintaining solid communication with HCWs through regular reminder emails and feedback, periodic assessment of the electronic notification system, and engagement of healthcare workers and other stakeholders to sustain and expand progress achieved through continuous evaluation.

Training and Active Case Detection to Prevent Leprosy: Effect on Knowledge, Attitude and Skills of Health Workers on Early Diagnosis of Leprosy in a Leprosy Hotspot District in Ethiopia.

Despite all of the efforts, leprosy continues to affect hundreds of thousands of people every year, including children, showing the ongoing transmission of the disease within the population. The transmission of leprosy can be interrupted through an integrated approach that includes active case-finding, contact tracing and capacity building of health workers. A cross-sectional study design was used to assess the knowledge, attitudes and skills of health workers in the screening and diagnosis of leprosy. One hundred and eighty-one and eighty-eight health care workers participated in the pre-and post-assessment surveys, respectively. Data were collected through interviews and an observational checklist. Frequency tables and graphs were used to describe the study variables, and statistical significance between pre- and post-assessment surveys was declared at p-value < 0.5. The percentages of healthcare workers with good knowledge, positive attitudes and skills were 61.2%, 55.6% and 51.7% in the pre-assessment survey and 77.3%, 56.3% and 75.0%, respectively, in the post-assessment survey. There was a significant improvement in the knowledge and skill scores of participants in the post-assessment survey (p < 0.01). During the campaign, 3780 index contacts were screened; 570 (15.1%) were diagnosed with skin diseases, and 17 new leprosy cases were diagnosed (case detection rate of 45 per 10,000 contacts). Training improved the knowledge and skills of healthcare workers, and a large number of skin diseases were detected through mass screening and active case findings. Providing training for frontline healthcare workers contributed to the detection of more cases and facilitated early detection of leprosy cases.