Lower Attitude Scores Research Articles

Knowledge, attitudes, and practices on leprosy among dermatology residents in the Philippines

Introduction: leprosy is a chronic bacterial infection caused by Mycobacterium leprae and Mycobacterium lepromatosis, primarily affecting the skin and peripheral nerves. Dermatologists play an important role in diagnosing and treating patients affected with leprosy and are equipped with adequate knowledge about the clinical presentation and management of patients with leprosy. Methods: a cross-sectional study was conducted on the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of leprosy among dermatology residents in the Philippines using a selfadministered online questionnaire. The study was conducted in two phases: Phase I was the development of the questionnaire, and Phase II was the survey proper, where the questionnaire was administered to dermatology residents in the Philippines via convenience sampling. Descriptive statistics appropriate for the study variables were used. Results: in Phase I of the study, a questionnaire was validated by three leprosy and infectious disease experts and pilot-tested on ten dermatology graduates in the year 2022, showing that items had high scores for validity and reliability. Phase II involved administering the survey to dermatology residents. Data showed that overall, 46 of 118 participants (38.98%) obtained a satisfactory score of 80% and higher on knowledge, 101 of 118 (85.59%) exhibited a positive attitude, and 116 of 118 (98.31%) had adequate practices. Moreover, first-year residents exhibit lower attitude scores than those in higher years, and no significant differences in knowledge and practices were found based on the practice setting. Conclusion: results of the study show that less than half of the included resident dermatologists had satisfactory knowledge of leprosy. However, we identified gaps in these physician’s knowledge, mainly in peripheral assessment nerve function, doses, and duration of treatment for leprosy peoples. On the other hand, participants were noted to have an overall positive attitude towards leprosy and adequate practices.

Evaluating knowledge, attitude, and physical activity levels related to cardiovascular disease in Egyptian adults with and without cardiovascular disease: a community-based cross-sectional study

BackgroundCardiovascular disease (CVD) represents a significant health challenge in Egypt, yet there exists limited understanding regarding the knowledge, attitudes, and physical activity levels associated with CVD. These factors play a pivotal role in developing effective prevention and management strategies. Hence, this cross-sectional study aimed to evaluate Egyptian adults’ knowledge, attitudes, and physical activity (KAP) levels.MethodsData were collected using a previously validated questionnaire encompassing demographic characteristics, CVD knowledge (including risk factors and symptoms), attitudes toward CVD, and self-reported physical activity levels. The survey was distributed among social media channels, and trained researchers administered the questionnaire via face-to-face interviews with adult patients with and without CVD admitted to Cairo University Hospital clinics.ResultsThe study involved 591 participants, of whom 21.7% had CVD. Overall, participants exhibited poor knowledge regarding CVD, with a mean score of 21 ± 7 out of 40, equivalent to 52.5%. Attitudes toward CVD were moderate, with a mean score of 66.38 ± 8.7 out of 85, approximately 78%. Physical activity levels per week were also moderate, averaging 1188 MET-min with a range of 1121–18,761. Subgroup analysis revealed that individuals with CVD had lower average knowledge, attitude, and physical activity levels than those without CVD. Working in the healthcare field was a predictor of higher knowledge score (standard error (SE) 5.89, 95% confidence interval (CI) 4.61 to 7.17, P < 0.001), while those with CVD and smokers were predictors of lower attitude score (SE -4.08, 95% CI -6.43 to -1.73, P < 0.001) and (SE -2.54, 95% CI -4.69 to -0.40, P = 0.02), respectively.ConclusionThe study findings highlight a significant disparity in knowledge, attitudes, and physical activity levels related to CVD in Egypt. Targeted interventions aimed at improving awareness, fostering positive attitudes, and promoting physical activity among individuals at risk for CVD are crucial for effective prevention and management.

Characteristics and influencing factors of the first dental visit among children in Bangkok, Thailand: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundThe first dental visit (FDV) is fundamental to good oral health. This study aimed to investigate the characteristics of FDV, including the influencing factors, in children attending the government dental hospital in Bangkok.MethodsThis study included 289 pairs of new patients (aged 0–12 years) and their parents. The questionnaires, consisting of three parts: socio-demographic, reasons for the child’s FDV and for not having FDV earlier, and the children’s oral health knowledge and attitude, were completed by parents. The Chi-square and Kruskal-Wallis tests were used to compare variables among age groups. The level of statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. A multiple linear regression analysis was performed to identify the factors that influence the age at FDV. The variables included in the analysis were the child’s characteristics, the family’s socio-demographic background, the presence of symptoms, and the parents’ knowledge and attitude towards their child’s oral health.ResultsThe mean ages of children at FDV were 5.57 ± 2.88 (age range of 0.58–11.92) years. There were 2.42% who had FDV ≤ 12 months of age, and 76.5% of all children already had dental caries. A low attitude score among parents was significantly found in the older age group of children (p = 0.001). The influencing factors with the age at FDV were the parental age (p < 0.001), the presence of symptoms or chief complaints (p = 0.016), and the presence of dental caries (p < 0.001).ConclusionsChildren in Bangkok had seriously delayed FDV compared to the recommended guidelines. The parental age strongly influenced the proper age at FDV, together with the presence of symptoms or chief complaints, and the presence of dental caries. Thus, an effective campaign to raise awareness about FDV is still needed, especially in advanced maternal age.

Public Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Regarding the Use of Over-The-Counter (OTC) Analgesics in Indonesia: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Over-the-counter analgesics like paracetamol and nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are widely accessible to the general population. However, ensuring their safe and effective usage is crucial by considering individuals' knowledge, attitudes, and practices toward these medications. This study aimed to assess the general population's knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding the use of over-the-counter analgesics. This cross-sectional study took place in Indonesia from December 2019 to June 2020. A validated questionnaire was used to survey a total of 582 respondents. A comparative analysis examined the variations in mean scores for respondents' characteristics concerning their knowledge, attitude, and practice. A regression analysis was also employed to explore the factors associated with adopting good analgesia practices. The findings of the study revealed significant differences in average knowledge scores related to gender, educational attainment, and employment status for the use of both paracetamol and NSAIDs. Regarding knowledge, the respondents demonstrated a higher average score for analgesics (4.56 ± 1.84) than NSAIDs (2.881 ± 2.40), out of a maximum score of 6 points. The results indicate that the respondents obtained a low score for attitude (6.80 ± 3.74) out of 16 points and a positive score for practice (2.71 ± 0.48) out of 3 points regarding using analgesics. Moreover, the regression analysis revealed that gender, residing near primary health care facilities, and having sound knowledge of NSAID use were significant predictors of good analgesic practice (p < 0.05). The respondents demonstrated a greater understanding of analgesics compared with NSAIDs. However, despite this higher knowledge level, they had relatively low attitude scores but positive practice scores, indicating a discrepancy between attitudes and actual behavior in using analgesics.

Predictors of Diabetes Health Literacy and Numeracy Among Urbanized Older Adults in Malaysia

Introduction: Diabetes health literacy and numeracy are health indicators of increasing attention to empower diabetic self-management. This study aimed to explore the predictors of diabetes health literacy and numeracy among urbanized older adults. Methods: A total of 408 older adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus, aged 50 years and older were recruited using stratified random sampling from eight health clinics in Petaling district. A pre-tested questionnaire was used to measure knowledge, attitude, self-efficacy, self-care behavioral skills, diabetes health literacy and numeracy related to diabetes mellitus, as well as the sociodemographic background. Multivariable linear regression was used to understand and rank the predictors of diabetes health literacy and numeracy among the respondents. Results: The total mean score for diabetes health literacy was 53.74 ± 0.60, which was significantly predicted by age (β = -0.21, p=0.01), secondary (β =12.21, p&lt;0.001) and tertiary (β = 16.37, p&lt;0.001) education levels, non-Malays (β = -5.83, p&lt;0.001), being employed (β = -2.77,p=0.02), have other comorbidities (β = -3.02, p=0.003), diabetes related self-efficacy (β = -0.37, p=0.02) and self-care behavioral skills (β =0.36, p&lt;0.001). Meanwhile, the total mean score for diabetes health numeracy was 1.50 ± 0.13 and was significantly predicted by age (β=-0.15, p&lt;0.001), secondary (β=1.09, p=0.002) and tertiary (β=2.24, p&lt;0.001) education levels, and attitude towards diabetes (β=0.16, p&lt;0.001). Conclusion: Very low diabetic numeracy was observed, which was predicted by increased age, low education and low attitude score towards managing diabetes. Hence promoting diabetic numeracy should be targeted among older adults with identified risks.

Attitudes to pangolins and factors affecting their conservation in a human dominated landscape in Nepal

AbstractPangolins in Nepal are found mostly in human‐dominated landscapes where their numbers are declining due to illegal hunting and trade. Positive attitudes of local people are believed to be powerful drivers for the conservation of threatened species. We explored local attitudes using a semi‐structured questionnaire survey of 1017 people from 105 villages in rural areas across Nepal to investigate the key factors influencing local attitudes towards pangolins and their conservation. Topography and education level were identified as strong predictors of attitude scores as was geographic variation associated with differences between provinces. Positive attitudes were observed in the majority of respondents from Madhesh Province and Koshi Province in eastern Nepal, in those with higher levels of education and those from the lowland Terai region. Respondents from Karnali Province, western Nepal and those living in the Mid‐hill region, had significantly lower attitude scores. However, a significant number of respondents with negative attitudes towards pangolins in Karnali Province also reported higher levels of illegal hunting. Local stewardship can be promoted through awareness campaigns and alternative livelihood initiatives. Collaboration with local communities and stakeholders as well as their capacity enhancement should be a priority for the sustainable conservation of the species.

Knowledge and attitude factors associated with the prevalence of Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, and acellular pertussis) booster vaccination in healthcare workers in a large academic hospital in Southern Italy in 2022: a cross-sectional study.

In Europe, there is still suboptimal tetanus, diphtheria, and acellular pertussis (Tdap) booster coverage. This study aimed to assess coverage status, knowledge, and attitude on Tdap vaccination in healthcare workers (HcWs) of the University Hospital "Federico II" in Naples, Southern Italy, in 2022, to improve current vaccination strategies. A cross-sectional study was conducted using a validated anonymous questionnaire. Knowledge and attitude were measured as scores. Multivariable logistic and linear regression models were employed to identify correlates of Tdap booster and knowledge and attitude toward the vaccination, as appropriate. Models were controlled for age, sex, profession, department, and job seniority. A total of 206 questionnaires were administered among HcWs, and 143 (69.4%) were medical doctors. In total, 71 (34.47%) HcWs received the Tdap booster. Those who have worked 5-9 years at the hospital had a 78% lower likelihood of being vaccinated with the Tdap booster (5-9 years-OR: 0.22, CI: 0.06 | 0.85) as compared with newly hired HcWs. No differences in the average knowledge score were found. Other healthcare workers had a lower attitude as compared to medical doctors (Other-Coef. -2.15; CI: -4.14 | -0.15) and, as compared with those who worked in a clinical department, those who worked in a diagnostic-therapeutic department or medical management had 3.1 and 2.0 lower attitude scores, on average, respectively (diagnostic-therapeutic-Coef. -3.12, CI: -5.13 | -1.12; public health-Coef. -1.98, CI: -3.41 | -0.56). The study findings support the necessity to implement public health strategies and improve knowledge and attitude toward vaccinations and specifically highlight the importance of Tdap booster every 10 years as a prevention tool to protect high-risk populations.

Newborn Screening Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices among Obstetrics-Gynecology Residents, Pediatric Residents, and Newborn Screening Nurses in a Tertiary Government Hospital in the Philippines during the COVID-19 Pandemic

Newborn Screening (NBS) saves babies from mental retardation and death. In the Philippines, it was formally established by law in 2004. Program success requires physicians, nurses, and midwives to educate and motivate parents. The COVID-19 pandemic reduced NBS coverage from 91.6% to 80% between December 2019 and December 2020. This study aimed to (1) determine the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of residents and nurses relative to NBS during the COVID-19 pandemic; and (2) identify possible factors that may have affected NBS services at the Philippine General Hospital during the pandemic. Participants' demographics were also compared with NBS practices. The study enrolled 189 participants employed during 2020. The results of a self-administered online questionnaire were evaluated. Only 31% of participants scored above a mean passing level for NBS knowledge set by experts. Most participants expressed a favorable attitude towards NBS. Knowledge scores were a significant factor in favorable attitude. Obstetrics-gynecology residents had lower attitude scores than Pediatric residents and NBS Nurses. Prenatal parent education was only practiced by 1/3 of participants. Despite the obstacles of the COVID-19 pandemic, participants appreciated the value of the NBS and were willing to perform specimen collection using safety precautions. Participants identified the need for additional NBS training. The challenges identified provide an avenue for further research with the goal of strengthening NBS, especially during a public health emergency.

Predictors of Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice (KAP) Towards Family Planning (FP) Among Pregnant Women in Fiji

ObjectiveThis study aimed to determine the predictors of Knowledge, Attitude and Practice (KAP) towards Family Planning (FP) among pregnant Fijian women.MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted over two months in 2019 with adult pregnant women attending the Antenatal Clinic (ANC) at Ba Mission Hospital (BMH), Fiji. Data was collected using a self-administrated questionnaire. Statistical analysis included correlation tests and regression analysis in determining predictors of KAP.Results240 pregnant women participated in this study with a mean age of 26.02 (± SD = 4.13). The results showed a moderate level of knowledge (mean 14.95, SD ± 3.15), positive attitude (mean 20.56, SD ± 5.68), and good practice (mean 4.97, SD ± 1.73). Linear regression identified that women with more than seven children had a knowledge score of 3.65, lower than null parity (t value = -2.577, p = 0.011). Women aged 20 to 24 had a 6.47 lower attitude score than women aged 18 to 19 (t value = -2.142, p = 0.033). Women in defacto relationships had a 2.12 lower attitude score compared to the married category (t value = -2.128, p = 0.034). Fijian women of Indian descent had a 1.98 lower attitude score than the I Taukei women (t value = -2.639, p = 0.009). Women aged 30–34 had 2.41 lower practice scores than those aged 18–19 (t value = -2.462, p = 0.015).ConclusionThis study found a medium knowledge of FP among pregnant women. These findings support a recommendation for further research to implement effective strategies.

Patient and Provider Perceptions of COVID-19-Driven Telehealth Use From Nurse-Led Care Models in Rural, Frontier, and Urban Colorado Communities

The purpose of this study was to characterize the patient and provider engagement in the sudden telehealth implementation that occurred with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Patients and providers from 3 nurse-led models of care (federally qualified health centers, nurse midwifery practices, and the Nurse-Family partnership program) in Colorado were surveyed. Data from the Patient Attitude toward Telehealth survey and Provider Perceptions about Telehealth were collected. Patient respondents (n = 308) who resided primarily in rural or frontier communities were female, white, and Hispanic. Patients in urban areas used telehealth more frequently than in rural or frontier areas (P < .001). Rural/Frontier patients had significantly lower attitude scores than urban patients across each of 5 domains assessed. Telehealth modality differed across location (P < .023), with video calls, used more frequently by urban providers, and phone calls used by rural/frontier providers. Our data highlight differences in telehealth access and attitudes across rurality. These findings may contribute to future policy while addressing barriers to telehealth access and delivery.

Knowledge, attitude, and practices toward infection prevention and control among undergraduate pharmacy students in Zambia: findings and implications.

Infection prevention and control (IPC) measures are critical in preventing the risk of acquiring and transmitting nosocomial infections. In Zambia, there is little information concerning IPC practices among pharmacy students who are exposed to potentially infectious areas both in public and private healthcare settings. Therefore, this study assessed the knowledge, attitude, and practices of undergraduate pharmacy students toward infection prevention and control at the University of Zambia. This cross-sectional study was conducted among 290 undergraduate pharmacy students at the University of Zambia using a structured questionnaire from August 2022 to October 2022. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 25.0, and statistical significance was set at a 95% confidence level. Of the 290 participants, 166(57.2%) were female and the majority were aged between 18 and 23 years. Overall, 252(86.9%) had good knowledge, 167(57.6%) had positive attitudes, and 248(85.5%) had good practices toward IPC measures. These results indicate lower attitude scores compared to knowledge and practices. Having good knowledge of IPC was associated with being a Christian by religion compared to other religions (OR = 5.314, 95% CI: 1.141-24.745). There was no association between sociodemographics and attitude and practice concerning IPC. This study found that pharmacy students had good knowledge, positive attitudes, and good practices toward IPC measures. Consequently, more emphasis is needed to improve the student's knowledge, attitudes, and practices toward IPC, especially in areas where gaps were identified. Additionally, there is a need to improve curricula on IPC measures in the training of pharmacy programs.

Association between the dietary literacy of children's daily diet providers and school-age children's nutritional status and eating behaviours: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundOverweight and obesity rates have increased rapidly in Chinese school-age children, and previous studies have indicated that poor dietary literacy can lead to unhealthy eating behaviours. However, few studies have investigated the association between the dietary literacy of daily diet providers and the eating behaviours and nutritional status of school-age children raised by the providers. Thus, we aimed to explore this association.MethodsWe collected data on the eating behaviours and nutritional status of children in two primary schools in Anhui Province, as well as the dietary literacy of their daily diet providers. T-tests, one-way ANOVA, chi-square tests, and multiple linear regression were used to analyse the association.ResultsWe found significant differences in the scores on the Questionnaire of Children's Daily Diet Providers' Dietary Literacy (QCDDPDL) by region, relationship with the child, age, and educational level of the daily diet provider (all p < .05). Moreover, the children in the low QCDDPDL score group were inclined to engage in unhealthy eating behaviours such as emotional undereating and overeating (p < .05). In addition, the incidence of overweight and obesity was higher in the low QCDDPDL attitude score group than in the high score group (p = .006).ConclusionsOur study showed that the dietary literacy of diet providers may influence children's health and eating behaviours. Improving the dietary literacy of diet providers may promote the health status and eating behaviours of school-age children.

Characteristics of suicidal poisoned patients admitted to tertiary care center during COVID-19 pandemic

BackgroundSuicidal poisoning is a major concern during the COVID-19 pandemic that has several physical and mental hazards. This study aimed to evaluate the characteristics of suicidal poisoned patients admitted to a tertiary poison control center during the pandemic lockdown and assess COVID-related knowledge and attitude among those patients to identify the high-risk group for suicide. This cross-sectional study was conducted on acutely poisoned patients admitted to Tanta University Poison Control Center from June to December 2020. Upon admission, socio-demographic data, causative poisoning agents, COVID-related knowledge and attitude, Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAM-A), and Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAM-D) were collected from all participants.ResultsA total of 254 poisoned patients were categorized into suicidal (85.04%) and accidental (14.96%) poisoning groups. The former was caused mainly by phosphides and was significantly associated with a history of using psychotropic medications and high HAM-A and HAM-D results. Logistic regression analysis showed that a history of psychiatric illness, low attitude scores, and high HAM-D scores were significant risk factors for suicidal poisoning.ConclusionsConsiderable number of suicidal poisoned patients had moderate-to-severe depressive symptoms, highlighting the importance of providing specialized psychiatric services in poisoning centers, particularly among vulnerable populations, to prevent the overwhelming repeated suicidal attempts.

A cross-sectional study to assess knowledge, attitude and practice among healthcare workers regarding COVID-19 at a National Institute of North India

Background and Objectives. Healthcare workers (HCWs) are the frontline warriors of the battle against COVID-19 and are at high risk of exposure to SARS-CoV-2. Therefore, knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) among HCWs play a vital role in preventing and spreading COVID-19. Hence, the current study aimed to assess KAP among HCWs regarding COVID-19. Methods. This descriptive, cross-sectional study enrolled 171 HCWs of a national institute in North India. A self-administered questionnaire was used to assess KAP among HCWs regarding COVID-19. Descriptive statistical analysis was applied to compare and represent the level of association of KAP scores among HCWs. Results. Among HCWs (n=171), 106 (61.98%) were males, and 65 (38.01%) were females. Most (n=76; 44.44%) belonged to the 20-29 age group. The mean±S.D score of HCWs for knowledge, attitude, and practice were 42.76±2.14, 28.91±1.59 and 20.38±1.46, respectively. Excellent knowledge, attitude, and practice score were found in 66.1%, 69.1%, and 97.1% of HCWs, respectively. Knowledge score was maximum in resident doctors (44.09±1.13); however, multi-tasking staff (29.35±1.44), laboratory technicians (29.31±1.21), and ward boys (29.29±1.59) had better attitude scores. Nurses (28.44±1.69) and safaikaramacharis (28.11±1.96) had low attitude scores. The practice score of nurses and multi-tasking staff fared well than resident doctors. Knowledge and attitude scores were statistically associated with the profession and higher level of education. Conclusion. The study highlights that most HCWs have good KAP regarding COVID-19. Continuous dissemination of education on the prevention of the spread of COVID-19 is advised among HCWs to improve their knowledge. Hence, it will strengthen the health workforce in the battle against COVID-19.

Muslim women's attitudes toward infant feeding in Qatar: An exploration using the Iowa infant feeding attitude scale

BackgroundMaternal attitude toward infant feeding is an important determinant of breastfeeding. The Islamic faith encourages breastfeeding, yet many Muslim women do not breastfeed as per the World Health Organization recommendations. In the Middle East, research has not addressed attitudes toward infant feeding among Muslim women. Assessing women's attitudes toward infant feeding choices is crucial to improve breastfeeding rates among Muslim women. AimThe aims of this study are to (a) examine postpartum Muslim women's attitudes toward infant feeding, (b) identify the determinants of these attitudes, and (c) determine whether attitudes can predict breastfeeding intention among Muslim women. A secondary aim is to examine the psychometric attributes of the Iowa Infant Feeding Attitude Scale among Muslim women. MethodA convenience sample of postpartum Muslim women (N = 414) were recruited between November 2019 and January 2020 in a large maternity facility in Qatar. A pre-developed questionnaire and the IIFAS were used to collect data. Both Arabic (n = 228) and English (n = 186) versions of the IIFAS were distributed postnatally to measure Muslim women's attitudes towards breastfeeding. A total attitude score was computed with higher scores indicating a more positive attitude toward breastfeeding. FindingsThe mean age of participants was 30.3 ± 5.2 years; 65.2% had a university degree and only 20.5% were employed. The mean attitude score was 61.8 ± 7.8. A significant association was found between the IIFAS attitude score and ethnicity, favouring Non-Qatari Arab women who had significantly higher attitude scores (p < .001). Women with full-time or part-time work had significantly higher scores than those not working (p = .008, p = .023). Older women had significantly lower attitude scores (adjusted slope = -0.230, p = .008). Cronbach's alpha reliability coefficient of the Arabic and English versions of the IIFAS ranged from 0.69 to 0.80. ConclusionEthnicity, employment status, and age are determinants of infant feeding attitudes among Muslim women. In Qatar, Muslim women's attitudes related to breastfeeding trend toward positive; however, attitude is not a predictor of antenatal breastfeeding intention. Further research employing a larger sample with a focus on a culturally sensitive approach is recommended. The IIFAS has a moderate reliability level and needs to be culturally adapted to be used among a Muslim population.

Nurses’ knowledge, attitude, and practice regarding the use of physical restraints in children in the intensive care setting in China: A cross-sectional multicentre study

ObjectiveThe objectives of this study were to investigate paediatric nurses’ knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) regarding the use of physical restraints and to explore the factors related to the use of physical restraints. Findings will provide a reference to develop standard procedures and training. BackgroundNurses' KAP regarding the use of physical restraints affect the use of physical restraints in the paediatric intensive care unit and neonatal intensive care unit. Understanding nurses’ decision-making processes should inform strategies and methods for effectively reducing and regulating the use of physical restraints in paediatric patients in the intensive care unit (ICU) in China. MethodsWe conducted a cross-sectional survey of 823 registered ICU nurses from 12 children's hospitals in China between April and June, 2020. ICU nurses' KAP regarding the use of physical restraints in children were evaluated using a structured self-administered questionnaire that was distributed through an online platform. Descriptive and multiple linear regression analyses were used to examine the factors that influenced ICU nurses' KAP regarding the use of physical restraints in children. ResultsOverall, 49.8% of respondents were paediatric intensive care unit nurses, 25.0% of respondents were neonatal intensive care unit nurses, and 25.2% of respondents were other ICU nurses; 58.44% of nurses had received some training on the use of physical restraints in children. Mean total scores on the items addressing ICU nurses’ knowledge (range, 0 [lowest level of knowledge] −11 [highest level of knowledge]), attitude (range, 11 [least likely to use physical restraint] - 55 [most likely to use physical restraint]), and practice (range, 14 [few skills] – 42 [good skills]) regarding the use of physical restraints in children were 8.00 ± 1.46, 30.67 ± 5.31, and 37.61 ± 3.46, respectively. Multiple linear regression analysis showed a higher level of education and less work experience (years) were related to higher knowledge scores; prior training in the use of physical restraint was related to lower attitude scores; and female, prior training in the use of physical restraints, and a higher level of education were related to higher practice scores. ConclusionsNurses would like to use physical restraints without physician approval in an emergency or when they could not pay close attention to a child. There are a few standardised training and lack of clinical guidelines for paediatric nurses. We recommend establishing a standard of care for physical restraints in paediatric patients.

Undergraduate health sciences students’ response regarding COVID-19 pandemic in Saudi Arabia: an observational study

ABSTRACT Background The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic represents a major health problem, and its influences may persist with emerging viral variants. The current work was to evaluate the knowledge, attitude, and learning satisfaction of health sciences students (HSS) regarding the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods A questionnaire-based cross-sectional study was conducted from 20 February 2021 to 20 March 2021. Participants were undergraduate HSS at Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University in Al Kharj, Saudi Arabia. The questionnaire has been generated and distributed via online form. The questionnaire used was based on previous studies and included demographic information and knowledge, attitudes, perception, and learning satisfaction related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Results Out of the 400 questionnaires distributed to eligible students, the current study included a total of 330 HSS (82.5% response rate) from colleges of medicine (25.5%), dentistry (11.8%), pharmacy (33.6%), and Applied Medical Sciences (29.1%) of participants. The mean scores of knowledge, attitude, and learning satisfaction attained by students were 5.63 ± 0.65 out of 6, 4.22 ± 1.01 out of 5, and 11.28 ± 2.9 out of 19, respectively. Results show an association between the knowledge score of students and their age-group and specialty-college. Students with chronic diseases reported lower attitude scores and rate of COVID-19 vaccine-willingness. Younger HSS had a higher learning satisfaction score than the older participants. Conclusion Overall, participants show high knowledge level and positive attitude toward COVID-19 but fair learning satisfaction during the pandemic. Further studies are needed to improve the learning satisfaction and attitude of HSS in the future.

Levels and Predictors of Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice Regarding the Health Hazards Associated With Barber's Profession in Fiji.

Introduction: This study aimed to determine the level and predictors of Knowledge, Attitude and Practice (KAP) among barbers regarding health hazards associated with their profession in Fiji. Methods: A quantitative study was used to assess the levels and predictors of KAP using a structured questionnaire among 117 barbers who were chosen between June and November 2020 in Suva, Fiji. All those barbershops that operated at least for 6 months, were licensed, and 18 years and above were included. A self-administrative closed-ended structured questionnaire was used to collect data. The level of KAP was assessed using the modified Bloom’s cut-off points. A correlation test was used to determine predictors of KAP. Results: The majority of participants had a medium level of knowledge (62.4%), medium level of attitude (63.2%), and low level of practice (64.1%) towards health hazards associated with barbering the profession. However, 28.2% had low knowledge and attitude scores. The major source of knowledge was through the internet. The results of the correlation test showed that religion, education level, and weekly income were significantly correlated with knowledge (<.05) whereas age and weekly income was significantly correlated with the level of attitude of participants towards health hazards associated with their profession (<.05). Conclusion: Barbers had medium knowledge and attitude towards health hazards associated with the barbering profession while their practice was poor. These findings call for prompt and target group interventions such as strengthening enforcement, awareness, training on equipment decontamination and Good Hygiene Practices to be conducted.

Attitude toward Suicidal Behavior: A Cross-Sectional Study among Health-Care Professionals in Northwest Malaysia

Introduction: The attitude of clinicians will steer the direction of clinical care provided to patients with suicidal behavior. However, there is limited local data to suggest the attitude of health-care workers toward suicidal patients in the health-care settings. Objective: We aimed to assess the attitude of health-care professionals toward suicidal behavior and the factors influencing their attitude. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted in a single tertiary health-care facility in northwest Malaysia, using a validated modified Suicide Opinion Questionnaire, distributed to medical doctors, nurses, and assistant medical officers. Results: A total of 487 health-care workers from 13 clinical departments participated in the study. We found that health-care professionals generally held unfavorable attitudes toward suicidal behavior, with 70.0% of the respondents generated low attitude scores in overall section. Independent factors that were found to be significantly associated with unfavorable attitudes toward suicidal behavior include religion (P = 0.027), education level (P = 0.007), and occupation (P = 0.007). Multivariate analysis with logistic regression showed that medical doctors were found to be 2.11 times more likely to hold unfavorable attitudes toward suicidal behavior as compared to nurses (95% confidence interval: 1.15–4.30, P = 0.009). Conclusion: Our findings highlighted the suicide stigma that is prevalent even among professional health-care workers in Malaysia. The unfavorable attitude toward suicidal behavior contrasted the elements of empathy and care that should be the core practice in health-care services. Therefore, we suggest for the implementation of training workshops incorporating interactive communication skills and reflective thinking to improve understanding and attitude toward suicidal behavior among health-care workers.

How Prepared Are the Health Care Professionals for Disaster Medicine Management? An Insight from Pakistan

Countries need healthcare professionals who are competent first responders with a positive attitude and prepared to deal with catastrophes. The study evaluated the knowledge, attitude, and readiness of the practice of healthcare professionals towards disaster management. A survey was carried out among hospital healthcare professionals using a self-administered validated questionnaire. The questionnaire comprised knowledge, attitude, and readiness to practice items. Descriptive and inferential statistics (Mann–Whitney, Kruskal–Wallis, correlation and regression tests) at alpha = 0.05 were used in the analysis. The mean (SD) score of knowledge was 12.25 (4.27) (range: 3.00 to 20.00), attitude (39.32 ± 9.55; range: 18.00 to 61.00), readiness to practice (32.41 ± 6.69; range: 21.00 to 61.00), and KArP (83.99 ± 12.21; range: 60.00 to 124.00). The average knowledge score was moderate, low attitude score, moderate readiness to practice score, and an average score of overall KArP. Attitude is a significant predictor of readiness to practice (p = 0.000). The levels of knowledge, attitude, and readiness of the practice of healthcare professionals were not satisfactory. The educators and health policymakers should build a robust curriculum in disaster medicine management and preparedness to prepare for the future of competent healthcare professionals for the nation.