Level Of Knowledge Research Articles

Knowledge, perceived needs of continuous professional’s development, and associated factors among healthcare workers in East Ethiopia: a multi-health facility-based cross-sectional study

BackgroundThe Ethiopian Ministry of Health (EMOH) has recently introduced a Continuous Professional Development (CPD) program for healthcare workers to ensure they maintain the necessary competencies to meet the community’s health needs. However, there is limited information on healthcare workers’ knowledge and perceived need for CPD. This study aims to assess healthcare workers’ CPD knowledge, perceived needs, and factors associated with these in eastern Ethiopia.MethodsA health facility-based cross-sectional quantitative study was conducted from September 1, 2022, to October 30, 2022. Health facilities and study participants were selected using a simple random sampling technique. A total of 731 healthcare professionals were randomly selected. Data was collected using a self-administered questionnaire developed from national CPD guidelines. Data analysis was performed using the STATA statistical package version 14. A logistic regression model was used to assess the association between predictors and the outcome variable. Adjusted odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals were calculated to determine the strength of the association. A p-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.ResultsIn this study, 731 healthcare workers participated. Among them, 65.80% (95% CI: 62.35%, 69.24%) had knowledge of CPD, and 79.48% (CI95% 76.54, 82.41) expressed a strong perceived need for CPD. Female healthcare workers [AOR: 0.54 (95% CI: 0.37, 0.78)] and lack of internet access [AOR: 0.68 (95% CI: 0.47–0.97)] were predictors of knowledge of CPD. Age above 35 [AOR: 0.39 (95% CI: 0.17, 0.91)] and being female [AOR: 0.59 (95% CI: 0.40–0.87)] were predictors of a strong perceived need for CPD.ConclusionThe study found that there was a low level of knowledge about Continuing Professional Development among healthcare workers. The perceived needs of healthcare workers varied. It is important for health sectors and stakeholders to prioritize developing strategies that address knowledge gaps, particularly among female healthcare workers, improve access to the Internet for CPD resources, and address the diverse needs of professionals for effective CPD implementation.

What polarizes citizens? An explorative analysis of 817 attitudinal items from a non-random online panel in Germany.

Various studies point to the lack of evidence of distributive opinion polarization in Europe. As most studies analyse the same item batteries from international social surveys, this lack of polarization might be due to an item's issue (e.g., the nature or substance of an item) or item formulation characteristics used to measure polarization. Based on a unique sample of 817 political attitudinal items asked in 2022 by respondents of a non-random online panel in Germany, we empirically assess the item characteristics most likely to lead to distributive opinion polarization-measured with the Van der Eijk agreement index. Our results show that only 20% of the items in our sample have some-at most moderate-level of opinion polarization. Moreover, an item's salience in the news media before the survey data collection, whether an item measures attitudes toward individual financial and non-financial costs, and the implicit level of knowledge required to answer an item (level of technicality) are significantly associated with higher opinion polarization. By contrast, items measuring a cultural issue (such as issues on gender, LGTBQI+, and ethnic minorities) and items with a high level of abstraction are significantly associated with a lower level of polarization. Our study highlights the importance of reflecting on the potential influence of an item's issue and item formulation characteristics on the empirical assessment of distributive opinion polarization.

The scientific knowledge of three large language models in cardiology: multiple choice questions examination-based performance

Background: The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots like Google’s Bard, OpenAI’s ChatGPT, and Microsoft’s Bing Chatbot into academic and professional domains, including cardiology, has been rapidly evolving. Their application in educational and research frameworks, however, raises questions about their efficacy, particularly in specialized fields like cardiology. This study aims to evaluate the knowledge depth and accuracy of these AI chatbots in cardiology using a multiple-choice question (MCQ) format. Methods: The study was conducted as an exploratory, cross-sectional study in November 2023 on a bank of 100 MCQs covering various cardiology topics that was created from authoritative textbooks and question banks. These MCQs were then used to assess the knowledge level of Google’s Bard, Microsoft Bing, and ChatGPT 4.0. Each question was entered manually into the chatbots, ensuring no memory retention bias. Results: The study found that ChatGPT 4.0 demonstrated the highest knowledge score in cardiology, with 87% accuracy, followed by Bing at 60% and Bard at 46%. The performance varied across different cardiology subtopics, with ChatGPT consistently outperforming the others. Notably, the study revealed significant differences in the proficiency of these chatbots in specific cardiology domains. Conclusion: This study highlights a spectrum of efficacy among AI chatbots in disseminating cardiology knowledge. ChatGPT 4.0 emerged as a potential auxiliary educational resource in cardiology, surpassing traditional learning methods in some aspects. However, the variability in performance among these AI systems underscores the need for cautious evaluation and continuous improvement, especially for chatbots like Bard, to ensure reliability and accuracy in medical knowledge dissemination.

Knowledge Regarding Autism among Pre School Teachers of Kathmandu, Nepal

Introduction: Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are a diverse group of conditions. They are characterized by some degree of difficulty with social interaction and communication. The aim of study is to find the level of knowledge among preschool teacher. Methodology: Purposive sampling was taken to find out knowledge level of preschool teachers in Kathmandu. Analysis: Both descriptive and inferential statistics was used to analyze the data. Socio demographic data were analyzed using descriptive statistics Chi. Square test was used at 95% Confidence Interval where p value&lt;0.05 be considered statistically significant to find significance of difference in level of knowledge. Chi-square test to determine the association between level of knowledge and selected demographic variables and source of information Results and Discussion: All respondents were female. The highest score was only 19. Near to one third of respondents i.e. 32.9% had poor knowledge, one fourth of respondents i.e. 25% had average knowledge on ASD and only 42.1 % of respondents had good level of knowledge on ASD. Mean score was only 10.5 in this study where the total score was 31. Conclusion: The knowledge of preschool teachers on ASD is not adequate. All most all respondents were female. Training on disability and ASD was not taken by majority respondents.

Assessment of Level of Awareness and Barriers to Low Vision Rehabilitation Among Optometrists in Pakistan

Introduction: Low vision rehabilitation provides strategies to substitute for visual impairment and the resultant limitations of low vision by enhancing remaining vision and other sensory or motor abilities in individuals. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the level of knowledge of and perceived barriers to providing low vision rehabilitation by optometrists in Pakistan. Methods: In this qualitative, cross-sectional study, a convenient sample of 100 participants was included and a structured, validated, self-administered questionnaire was provided to collect demographic information and to identify the level of knowledge, awareness, and perceived barriers regarding low vision rehabilitation. Data was analyzed using frequency distribution and Pearson's chi-square test to understand the significance of barriers to low vision care provision. Results: A total of 100 participants completed the study questionnaire (59 males, 41 females) with a mean age of 26 (±6.1 SD) years. Eighty-two participants (82%) had an adequate understanding of low vision as per WHO's criteria. However, 47% of participants failed to identify the steps of low vision rehabilitation. Newly graduated practicing optometrists (i.e., those with less than 3 years’ experience) had a significantly better understanding of low vision definition and low vision rehabilitation steps, as compared to more experienced optometrists ( p &lt; .05). Also, those working in private practices were more likely to consider low vision rehabilitation as less profitable ( p = .025, odds ratio = 2.56, CI = 1.1–5.8), compared to those working in hospitals. Discussion: Lack of training and unavailability of low vision devices are major barriers, as perceived by optometrists in Pakistan. Rigorous attempts are needed to educate eye care practitioners specifically optometrists about the availability and usage of low-cost, improved-quality, and up-to-date low vision devices in the country. Implications for practitioners: Continuous professional development through refresher courses is crucial to enhance knowledge of low vision rehabilitation. Educating optometrists to adopt a multidisciplinary and empathetic approach toward patient management may improve patients’ satisfaction and success with rehabilitative services.

KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE AND PRACTICE OF FOOD HYGIENE AMONG FOOD VENDORS IN LAFIA, NASARAWA STATE, NIGERIA

Most nations, including Nigeria, have large populations that consume street food, and most of those who would not otherwise be employed make a living by selling it. Because the majority of street sellers are underprivileged, illiterate, and care little to nothing about food safety and hygiene, serious worries about the safety of these meals have been growing. This study evaluated the actions, attitudes, and knowledge of food vendors in Lafia Town, Nasarawa State, with regard to food safety. A basic random sampling procedure was used to choose a sample of 261 respondents for a descriptive cross-sectional survey design. A methodical questionnaire was employed to gather information. Descriptive statistics (frequency percentage, mean, and standard deviation) were used to analyse the data, and Chi-square was used to test hypotheses at the 5% significance level. The research results revealed that the participants' average age was 39.20 ± 9.536. Considering the respondents' general level of knowledge, most of 234 (89.7%) have a good comprehension of the significance of safety of food. Most of respondents, or 230 (88.1%), indicated that vendors of food had a generally positive attitude on food cleanliness. The results demonstrated that the most of respondents, 163 (62.5%), practise good food hygiene. A few of the factors that the study found affected the food vendors' practices of food hygiene were: 100 (38.3), forgetting to follow food hygiene guidelines, 0 (0.0%), not having monitoring teams visit, 22 (8.4%), and not receiving regular scores to check the method of food preparation and how it is served. The respondents' attitude and knowledge levels did not significantly correlate (Fisher's exact 0.918 and p=0.338). According to the study, even though food vendors' knowledge, attitudes, and practices seemed adequate, there is still a need for all parties involved to put in place regulatory measures to guarantee that food vendors adhere to standards appropriate for the public consumption and to continuously raise public awareness of the need of observing food hygiene practices and outbreaks of food-borne illnesses, which are common in our society.

Assessment of Knowledge and Concern of People Living with HIV Regarding Human Mpox and Vaccination.

Mpox virus is an orthopoxvirus that causes the zoonotic infectious disease known as mpox. The disease can also spread from humans to humans. It can be transmitted through contact with bodily fluids, lesions on the skin, or internal mucosal surfaces. The number of mpox cases increased during the COVID-19 pandemic. Early diagnosis and prompt management of mpox are critical in people living with HIV (PLHIV). In this study, a cross-sectional survey was conducted among PLHIV followed at the outpatient clinic between 20 April-20 August 2023. A questionnaire was used to assess the knowledge and anxiety levels of patients as well as their opinions about vaccination against mpox. The severity of symptoms in the past two weeks was assessed using the Generalised Anxiety Disorder 7-item scale. A total of 203 PLHIV were interviewed for this survey study. The mean age was 39.37±11.93. The majority of them were male (86.7%), and 41.4% were men who have sex with men (MSM). Only 21 of the surveyed participants (10.4%) had a "good knowledge" score about mpox. The mean knowledge score on human Mpox was 2.05 (min:0-max:8), and 107 (52.7%) had a score of 0. The future study should focus on continuous education, promoting awareness through programs and establishing measures to successfully overcome identified variables that contribute to mpox pandemic understanding and attitudes. Applying the lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic will help the management of mpox virus.

The study of the level of awareness of pharmacists on vaccination against human papillomavirus and the role of pharmacists in the prevention of cervical cancer

The study of the level of awareness of pharmacists on vaccination against human papillomavirus and the role of pharmacists in the prevention of cervical cancer

Knowledge and Uptake of Community-Based Healthcare Financing in Management of Non-Communicable Diseases among Community Members in Anambra State, Nigeria

Background: Catastrophic health expenditure is one of the challenges people living with non-communicable disease face, especially in Nigeria. This has led to the emergence of community-based health insurance as a means to achieve universal health coverage and reduce out-of-pocket payments. However, lack of knowledge about the insurance scheme and how it helps to manage non-communicable diseases seems to affect utilization. Aim: The study assessed the knowledge and uptake of community based healthcare financing in the management of non-communicable diseases among community members in Anambra State. Materials and Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional survey design was adopted for the study, sample size was 444 and a multistage sampling technique was used. The instrument for data collection was a self structured questionnaire and data obtained were analyzed using Microsoft excel, descriptive statistics, inferential statistics for hypothesis testing and IBM statistical package for social Sciences (SPSS) version 29. Results: 64.1% had a good knowledge of community based healthcare financing; 51.4% managed their health condition through hospital visits under CBHI. There was a significant relationship between the level of education of respondents and their level of knowledge of community based health insurance (p-value 0.001 &lt; 0.05). Conclusion: Majority had a good knowledge; those suffering pregnancy related non-communicable diseases used the insurance more although half of the respondents still pay through their pocket. The following recommendations were made: increase access to community-based healthcare financing information, encourage those in the informal sector to enroll and plan benefit packages to have wide illness coverage.

University Students’ Perception of the Dehesa and the Associated Traditional Trades

The dehesas are one of the most emblematic landscapes of the Extremadura region (Spain). Along with its natural values, it preserves a wide repertoire of knowledge and trades rooted in the history and tradition of rural communities. However, the knowledge and practices that have characterized life in this environment are currently under serious threat. Faced with this problem, this study was based on the premise that, for individuals to commit themselves to the care and transmission of heritage, it is first necessary for them to know, understand and value it. For this reason, the main objective was to determine the knowledge and appreciation of university students with respect to the dehesa and the ancestral practice of grazing. It also aimed to analyze which are the most valued methodologies, activities, and future strategies for understanding and preserving these cultural landscapes and their ancestral practices. To this end, 400 university students were surveyed, and various quantitative and qualitative analyses were carried out. Quantitative techniques include analyses based on weighted averages, contingency tables and the chi-square test, while qualitative techniques are based on word frequency analysis and inductive content analysis. Despite coming from an environment dominated by this landscape and being one of the few regions that still preserve the ancestral practice of pastoralism, the results corroborated the students’ lack of understanding of the dehesa and the variety of uses it offers. In addition, it was evident that they have hardly frequented this landscape and have not participated in on-site educational experiences. It also revealed the importance of experiential and sensory activities in the understanding and appreciation of the rural environment and its traditions. The results can be useful for improving the design of educational tourism products based on intangible heritage. It can also be useful for adapting teaching strategies and activities to the level of knowledge and experiences of students, helping to ensure the success of the educational experience.

Abstract PO5-05-04: Advancing Treatment and Management of Patients with HR+/HER2- Breast Cancer: Findings from a Quality Improvement Initiative

Abstract Background: With the advent of novel oral oncolytics, the cancer care delivery model for HR+/HER2- breast cancer (BC) is evolving, shifting the responsibility for medication adherence and monitoring and managing of side effects to patients and their caregivers. In this quality improvement (QI) initiative, we aimed to uncover and address gaps in patient and provider education, risk reduction, adverse event management, and shared decision-making in order to improve outcomes for HR+/HER2+ patients on oral oncolytics. Methods: From 9/2022 to 12/2022, 54 HCPs who treat breast cancer and 111 HR+/HER2- BC patients from 4 US community oncology clinics completed surveys assessing attitudes, values, and challenges related to practice patterns, education, and therapy adherence in HR+/HER2- BC. HCPs participated in audit-feedback sessions to reflect on survey results and their own practice, and developed action plans to improve care, which were implemented in subsequent collaborative patient-provider learning sessions. Results: Top reported HCP challenges in HR+/HER2- BC care include providing patient-centered supportive care measures (32%), patient adherence/lack of follow up (22%), and individualizing treatment plans (17%). Additionally, 43% of providers reported that improved collaboration across interprofessional teams would most improve care. Top reported patient challenges include worry about and/or difficulty managing side effects from treatment (26%), difficulty scheduling visits with many different HCPs/following up (24%), and difficulty communicating with healthcare teams (16%). In surveys, 28% of patients reported frequently or very frequently missing/skipping doses of oral breast cancer medication. Top reasons for missing/skipping doses included forgetting or not having it nearby (36%), cost (21%), and side effects (20%). To address the top challenges identified in baseline surveys, HCPs developed and implemented action plans, such as improving the identification of patients at high risk of recurrence, establishing patient-provider educational sessions, increasing the use of patient navigators, incorporating oral adherence toolkits, and educating patients and staff about available supportive care resources. After implementation of patient-provider collaborative education sessions at community clinics, patients reporting high levels of knowledge about BC treatment options and communicating side effects/symptoms increased from 27% to 57%, and 37% to 77%, respectively. At 60-day follow-up, 58% of patients reported taking a more active role in treatment decision-making, and 52% reported setting reminders/alarms/using apps to remember to take medication on time. Conclusions: Patient adherence to oral oncolytic medications remains a challenge in BC treatment. This quality improvement initiative uncovered underlying barriers to effective treatment management of HR+/HER2- breast cancer patients on oral oncolytics. Action plans and educational resources were developed and implemented to address identified barriers and optimize treatment management for HR+/HER2- BC. These methods and findings represent key opportunities for improvement that can be implemented in community oncology practices to improve adherence to oral oncolytics and overall HR+/HER2- breast cancer care. Citation Format: Jane Meisel, Chelsie Anderson, Ilona Dewald, Jeffrey Carter, Cherilyn Heggen, Kelly McKinnon. Advancing Treatment and Management of Patients with HR+/HER2- Breast Cancer: Findings from a Quality Improvement Initiative [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2023 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2023 Dec 5-9; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(9 Suppl):Abstract nr PO5-05-04.

An Assessment of Knowledge Level &amp; Attitude Towards Organ Donation Among Students and the Role of Media in Awareness

An Assessment of Knowledge Level &amp; Attitude Towards Organ Donation Among Students and the Role of Media in Awareness

Parasitic pygopagus conjoined twins' incidental findings in the obstructed labor of an intrapartum dead baby that had undergone emergency C-section: rare case report in South Papua.

Conjoined twins (CT), which used to be historically defined as "monstrous human" and previously so-called Siamese twins in the early eighteenth century, are one of the very rare congenital malformations with an uncertain etiology and complex yet remain inconclusively debatable regarding its pathophysiological mechanisms of fusion and fission theories. Among all types of CT, parasitic CT, especially the pygopagus sub-type, is exceedingly rarer. To the best of the authors' knowledge, no parasitic CT had been reported in Papua, and this is the first finding in South Papua. Herein, a 30-year-old multigravida female with 37th-week gestation, previous twice spontaneous miscarriage, and non-adequate antenatal care history is presented with a chief complaint of painful construction and greenish fluid leakage from the vagina, with an examination that showed a cephalic presentation with a "peculiar" big mass at the upper uterus and complete cervical dilation toward second-stage inpartu. Vaginal delivery was performed with a complication of obstructed labor due to uncommon dystocia with a suspected "big mass" below the fetal buttocks and intrapartum dead. Intrapartum transabdominal ultrasound demonstrates a gross anatomically like an organ inside a fluid-filled mass with unidentified parts, leading to a suspected type of congenital malformation at the baby's sacral region. Emergency C-section was done with findings of parasitic pygopagus CT, showing an attachment of a large irregular fluid-filled mass-like incomplete twin (parasite) with palpable soft tissue and bony structure inside to the buttocks of a male autosite twin, and an additional third leg which happened to be an under-developed lower extremity with a sacrum-like structure. An obstetrician's routine ANC and critical radiological evaluation will increase the odds of identifying CT or other congenital malformations to provide better delivery planning or further management. Increasing maternal health knowledge in society, improving medical skills and knowledge levels for health providers, and advancing supporting facilities and specialists are future strategies for managing and preventing such cases in low-middle-income countries.

Relationship between early childhood caries and parents' knowledge and attitudes towards primary teeth

IntroductionThis study aims to assess the correlation between parents' knowledge of primary teeth and early childhood caries (ECC). MethodsA study questionnaire consisting of 27 statements was presented to the parents of 500 children aged 0–6 years to obtain their responses. The dmft (decayed, missed, and filled teeth) index values of the children were also recorded. ResultsThe average number of correct answers was 16.41. There was a statistically significant difference in the relationship between parents' knowledge levels and their children's ECC diagnoses. The knowledge levels of parents whose children did not have caries were found to be higher (p < 0.001). There was a statistically significant relationship between the parents' knowledge level and their gender, educational status, occupation, income status, and child's age (p < 0.05). ConclusionIncreased parental knowledge of the importance of primary teeth has a positive relationship with a child's oral health, which can be influenced by sociodemographic characteristics.

Knowledge level and health information-seeking behavior of people with diabetes in rural areas: a multicenter cross-sectional study.

There is a lack of research on the current level of diabetes knowledge and health information-seeking behaviors among patients with diabetes in rural areas of China's economically underdeveloped regions during COVID-19, as well as a lack of up-to-date evidence on glycemic control and the incidence of complications among rural patients with diabetes. To investigate the prevalence of glycemic control and complications among patients with diabetes in rural areas, to explore the current status and correlation of diabetes knowledge level and health information-seeking behavior, and to analyze the factors affecting diabetes knowledge level. From January 2022 to July 2022, we conducted a screening on diabetic complications and a questionnaire survey among 2,178 patients with diabetes in 15 county hospitals in rural areas of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. The patients' knowledge level and health information-seeking behavior were investigated. Spearman correlation analysis was used to assess the correlation between diabetes knowledge and health information-seeking behavior. Multiple linear regression analysis was used to test how demographic information and health information-seeking behavior influenced the level of diabetes knowledge. Of 2,178 patients with diabetes in rural areas, 1,684 (77.32%) had poor glycemic control, and the prevalence of diabetic complications was estimated to be 72.13%. Patients with diabetes had poor diabetes knowledge and health information-seeking behavior, and there is a strong positive correlation between them. Diabetes knowledge level was influenced by per capita household disposable income, occupational status, gender, age, ethnicity, family history of diabetes, insulin use, glycated hemoglobin, education level, number of complications and health information-seeking behavior. Patients with diabetes in rural areas have poor glycemic control and a high incidence of diabetic complications. Patients with diabetes in rural areas have poor knowledge and inadequate health information-seeking behavior. Systematic and standardized education should be provided to improve patients' diabetes knowledge and thus improve their self-management ability.

An assessment of informal caregivers' knowledge levels on daily and emergency care practices for the elderly: A descriptive cross-sectional study

This study was aimed to determine knowledge level of informal caregivers daily care, emergency situations and the effect of the socio-demographic characteristics of informal caregivers on their knowledge levels. This descriptive and cross-sectional study was conducted between November 1, 2021, and June 30, 2022, with 83 (79.8 %) informal caregivers living in rural areas in northeast Türkiye. The data were collected using the Barthel Index for Activities of Daily Living, the Socio-Demographic Questionnaire, and the Questionnaire for Information on Elderly Care and Situations Requiring Emergency Care. 54 (65.1 %) of caregivers were women, 74 (89.2 %) did not receive training on the daily care of the elderly. A statistically significant difference was determined between the level of knowledge of caregivers about elderly care, caring experience for the elderly and emergency situations, their education level, and their perceptions of needing further information about elderly care (p < 0.05). Informal care givers should be trained by nurses.

Assessment of Knowledge and Perception of Sodium-Glucose Co-transporter 2 (SGLT-2) Inhibitors Prescription among Physicians in Saudi Arabia.

Sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors are a new class of medications that have been proven to improve both glycemic control and cardio-renal outcomes. The knowledge, attitude, and perception toward their prescriptions in Jazan, Saudi Arabia, are still unknown. The study aimed to measure the level of knowledge and attitude toward sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors prescription among physicians in the Jazan region, Saudi Arabia. Data analysis was performed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences, SPSS 23rd version. Frequency and percentages were used to display categorical variables. Minimum, maximum, mean, and standard deviation were used to test numerical variables. Independent t-test and ANOVA test were both utilized to test the factors associated with knowledge and attitude toward the use of SGLT-2 inhibitors. A total of 65 participants were included in the study. 26.2% had a low knowledge level, 30.8% had a moderate knowledge level, and 43.1% had a high knowledge level of sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors. 9.2% had a low attitude level, 43.1% had a moderate attitude level, and 47.7% had a high attitude level toward sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors. Age, professional status, years of experience, and specialty were significantly associated with attitude but not with the knowledge of sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors prescription. While the study cohort scored high in the knowledge and attitude domains of the survey, a large proportion failed to answer very essential questions in type 2 diabetes management. An educational awareness program needs to be carried out to strengthen the physicians' knowledge of SGLT2 inhibitors prescription.

Evidence-Based Investigation of Nurses' Nutrition Interventions in Intensive Care Patients Regarding Enteral Nutrition.

The aim of this study was to examine the practices and knowledge levels of nurses regarding enteral nutrition interventions in intensive care unit patients in terms of evidence. This cross-sectional study was conducted in 2 hospitals between May and August 2021. A total of 136 nurses working in the intensive care units of the hospitals completed online questionnaires including demographic characteristics and questions about enteral nutrition. According to the nurses' knowledge level about the indication of enteral nutrition formulas, the following were incorrect or incomplete: their knowledge about transition to parenteral nutrition in case of nutritional contraindications, what to do when the amount of gastric residual volume in tolerance is >500 mL every 6 hours, the conditions for starting enteral nutrition, and which formulas are appropriate to use. Regarding their knowledge about enteral feeding tubes/sets, their knowledge about radiologic imaging after tube placement, measurement of gastric pH level, and marking the tube location was insufficient. Differently, the correct answer percentages of the nurses in 11 of the 13 questions regarding the principles of enteral nutrition practice were above 70%. Nurses had adequate knowledge of the principles of enteral nutrition practice, but their knowledge of the indication of enteral nutrition formulas and the evidence for enteral feeding tubes/sets varied. The results showed that nurses need to gain information about the indication of enteral nutrition formulas and evidence related to enteral feeding tubes/sets.

Examining Biomedical Waste Management Knowledge and Training Level among Healthcare Professionals in Saudi Arabia

BackgroundThe rapid development of medical care innovations and the use of newer technologies have resulted in a significant rise in the quantity of waste produced per patient within healthcare facilities. Biomedical waste in particular has emerged as a pressing concern due to its inherent propensity to pose health hazards and cause environmental harm. The World Health Organization has identified a lack of knowledge and training as primary factors contributing to the failure of Biomedical waste management (BMWM). Thus, our study sought to examine the relationship between BMWM level of knowledge and prior training among healthcare professionals (HCPs) in four different regions in Saudi Arabia. MethodsOur study used a cross-sectional design to investigate the BMWM level of knowledge and prior training among HCPs in four different regions in Saudi Arabia. Multiple linear and logistic regression was used to assess if MBWM knowledge and prior tanning are significantly associated with the demographics and professional characteristics of HCPs. Results501 HCPs participated in the study. More than half were male, the majority fell within the age range of 24 to 36 years and held a bachelor's degree. The level of BMWM knowledge among HCPs was moderate (M = 31.14, SD = 4.89) and positively associated with HCPs' prior training in BMWM, workplace environment, and overall experience in the field. Only 26% of the HCPs had received prior BMWM training, and it varied considerably by sex, geographic location, and professional experience. ConclusionsOur study demonstrates a moderate knowledge and lack of training in BMWM among HCPs in Saudi Arabia. Thus, we recommend a national strategy for incorporating infection prevention and control methods associated with BMWM into all healthcare programs. Furthermore, it is imperative for health officials to enact prompt and efficient surveillance measures, as well as conduct frequent training sessions for HCPs and support personnel.

A study on Awareness and Knowledge of Surgical Site Infection among Dental Patients in a Nigerian Tertiary Hospital

Background: Risk of surgical site infection (SSI) can be reduced or eliminated if its awareness and knowledge is optimal among patients. Aim: The aim of this study was to assess the level of awareness and knowledge of SSI among dental patients in a Nigerian Tertiary Hospital. Materials and methods: This was a cross-sectional study design conducted in hospital setting on adult Nigerian population visiting a tertiary hospital between December, 2022 and February, 2023. The data was collected with a pretested 36-item, structured, close-ended, self-administered and interviewer -administered questionnaires. The data collected were socio demographic characteristics, past admission, days of hospitalization, reason for admission and history of SSI. Other collected data were awareness and knowledge of SSI. Both descriptive and inferential statistics were analyzed. The data was entered and analyzed using the statistical package for the social sciences (SPSS), version 26 (IBM, Armonk, NY, United States of America). A critical probability level (p-value) of &lt;0.05 was used as the cut-off level for statistical significance. Results: A total of 102 dental patients were interviewed in this study. The age range and the mean age were 20 -76 years and 45.3± 5.1 years respectively. There was slight (55.9%) preponderance of female gender. Only 24(23.5%) respondents had heard of SSI and this was mainly through medical personnel. The majority (76.5%) of the respondents had never seen anyone diagnosed of SSI. Few (6.9%) respondents claimed they were enlightened about SSI prior to surgery. Overall, half (50%) of the respondent had poor knowledge while only 13(12.7%) had good knowledge. Marital status, level of education and previous admission were significantly associated with poor knowledge (p&lt;0.05). Conclusions: The awareness and knowledge of surgical site infection among patients in this study were relatively poor. Therefore, awareness campaign among Nigerian population can help improved the level of knowledge for better wound care and quality care.