Significant Difference In Knowledge Scores Research Articles

Enhancing Trichomonas vaginalis Identification in Cytology Students through Gamification.

Trichomonas vaginalis is a causative agent of trichomoniasis, a sexually transmitted disease. In the cytology course context, students are taught to identify the cytomorphological characteristics of this organism. However, the limited learning period hinders their ability to recognize this infection effectively. This study intended to evaluate the efficacy of gamification by utilizing a web-based online game to enhance students' capacity to recognize Trichomonas vaginalis infection in cytology. The study involved 50 Medical Laboratory Technology students who were randomly assigned to three groups. Group 1 (G1) participants received an interactive web-based online game called CytoUniverse, which comprised three components: a story-based game, a cytomorphology game, and a quiz focusing on Trichomonas vaginalis infection in cytology. Group 2 (G2) participants received the same information from a video lecture. Group 3 (G3) received both the web-based online game and the video lecture. The participants were assessed before the intervention (T1) and after the intervention (T2) to measure the effectiveness of the respective learning methods. IBM SPSS version 28 and GraphPad Prism version 9.0 were used to collect, tabulate, and analyze the data. By using descriptive analysis, the normality of the data was checked. Knowledge score and age were described as mean and standard deviation (SD) for numerical data. On the contrary, the categorical data, such as gender and group categories, were reported as frequencies and percentages. Fisher's exact test, paired t-test, and one-way ANOVA test were used in this study to determine the significance between groups. The study's results indicated a statistically significant improvement (P < 0.05) in knowledge scores at T2 compared to T1 for both G1 and G2 when compared to G3. However, there were no significant differences in knowledge scores between all groups for T1 or T2. In conclusion, gamification through a web-based online game may improve understanding of Trichomonas vaginalis infection. It looks to be a promising strategy for boosting students' knowledge and awareness to recognize Trichomonas vaginalis infection in cytology.

Knowledge, attitudes and practices of Materiovigilance among physicians in a rural tertiary care teaching hospital in Puducherry- a cross sectional study

Background: In India, medical devices are considered as drugs. A medical device may lead to problems either due to a defect during manufacture or transport, improper handling by health care professionals or patients, or failure to comply with recommendations. Aim &amp; Objective: To evaluate the knowledge, attitude, and practice of Materiovigilance among health professionals at the Tertiary Care Hospital. Methods: This was a Cross-Sectional Questionnaire Based study. The questionnaires were circulated among 100 medical professionals. The structured survey tool comprised of two parts. The first part contains demographic data, and the second part consists of 15 questions, with 5 each pertaining to the awareness, attitude, and practice domains. All the data were entered into a Microsoft Excel sheet and analyzed using GraphPad Instat software version 5.0. Results: Medical professionals with above-average knowledge scores were 57 %, and the practice percentage of Materiovigilance was 60%, but there is a positive attitude (72%) towards Materiovigilance. A significant difference was noted Between the knowledge scores of professors and residents (p-value - 0.0491). There was no significant difference in knowledge scores between medical, surgical, and pre/para specialties. However, there was a positive correlation between the knowledge and attitude scores of the medical professionals. Conclusion: We conclude that the Knowledge aspect and also the practice of Materiovigilance among Physicians in our tertiary care hospital is lacking. However, their positive attitude to reporting adverse events is reassuring.

(202) Baseline Reproductive and Sexual Health Knowledge Among Undergraduate Students in Manitoba, Canada

Abstract Introduction Many undergraduate students are newly sexually active adults with unsafe sexual practices. While sexual education curriculums exist, their understanding of reproductive and sexual health is unknown. Objective We sought to assess undergraduate students' knowledge and attitudes on reproductive and sexual health. Our aim was to identify variables associated with knowledge deficiencies. Methods A novel, cross-sectional questionnaire was created with local expert input. The survey assessed respondents’ demographics, attitudes, and knowledge of contraception/family planning, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and infertility. The survey was distributed online from January to March 2021 to undergraduate students at two universities in Manitoba, Canada, through their students’ unions. Local ethics board approval was obtained, participation was voluntary, and data was anonymized. After calculating median and interquartile ranges according to the data distribution, categorical variables were analyzed with Chi-squared tests and continuous variables were analyzed with Kruskal-Wallis tests. Univariable and multivariable-adjusted logistic regression analysis were used to assess variables associated with knowledge differences. A p-value &amp;lt; 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results There were 309 respondents out of approximately 28,816 possible undergraduate students (n=309, response rate 1.1%). Of the respondents, 239 (77.3%) were females, 146 (47.2%) were ≥22 years old, 49 (15.9%) were from a high socioeconomic status (SES), and 264 (85.4%) were from Manitoba. Few felt that their post-secondary education on contraception/family planning (26.2%), STIs (34.6%), and infertility (4.5%) was adequate. Many felt at risk of having an unplanned pregnancy (45.3%) and contracting a STI (34.6%). The overall mean knowledge score was 65.5%, with averages of 71.7% correct for STIs, 65.6% for infertility, and 59.2% for contraception/family planning. There were significant differences in knowledge scores with age (p = 0.012), location of high school completion (p = 0.004), and university attended (p=0.044). On multivariate analysis, higher knowledge scores were associated with identifying as female (male OR = 0.39, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.18-0.87; p = 0.021), older age (age 21 OR = 6.04, 95% CI: 1.78-20.49; p = 0.004 and ≥22 years OR = 4.07, 95% CI: 1.35-12.26; p = 0.012), and university attended (University of Manitoba OR = 1.97, 95% CI: 1.11 – 3.49; p = 0.021). On subgroup analysis, family SES was associated with higher STI knowledge scores (OR = 2.19, 95% CI: 1.07 – 4.48; p = 0.032). Conclusions Undergraduate students face unique barriers in obtaining adequate reproductive and sexual health knowledge. In particular, younger males who attend smaller universities, and possibly those who are from lower SES, may be at greater risk of negative outcomes. We highlight the need for improved access to education and supports to assist undergraduate students in making more informed decisions. Disclosure No.

Assessment of Primary Healthcare Providers' Knowledge and Practices in Addressing Asymptomatic Hyperuricemia and Gout in the Asir Region of Saudi Arabia.

Introduction and aim Gout, the most common form of inflammatory arthritis, arises from hyperuricemia, a condition where elevated levels of uric acid lead to the deposition of monosodium urate (MSU) crystals in the joints. Nevertheless, it's important to note that not all cases of hyperuricemia result in gout. Methodology This cross-sectional study was conducted in the Asir region of Saudi Arabia, targeting primary healthcare physicians (PHPs) specializing in family medicine and general practice. The study utilized a modified electronic questionnaire, inspired by similar studies and aligned with recent guidelines, to assess PHPs' knowledge and practices concerning asymptomatic hyperuricemia (AH) and gout. The questionnaire encompassed the PHPs' demographic data and their knowledge and practices for AH and gout management. Results Out of 201 participating PHPs, the majority were male (68.2%), predominantly aged 25-34 years (73.1%), and practicing as general practitioners (61.2%). A significant proportion of PHPs had less than five years of experience (63.7%). In terms of education, 36.8% attended continuing medical education (CME) on AH or gout, and 66.7% were aware of the related management guidelines. The study revealed that the total knowledge score among PHPs averaged 5.18 out of seven, indicating a moderate level of knowledge. However, their practice level was moderate, with a mean practice score of 6.75 out of 12. The study also found no significant differences in knowledge scores based on gender, age, or years of experience, but significant variations were noted based on medical specialty. Conclusion There is a moderate level of knowledge and practice among PHPs in managing AH and gout in the Asir region. Despite adequate knowledge levels, there appears to be a gap in implementing this knowledge into practice, particularly in long-term management strategies. The findings emphasize the need for ongoing medical education and specialized training programs to bridge these gaps. The study provides a valuable framework for identifying and addressing similar challenges in other regions and medical practices.

Knowledge and Attitudes Toward Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation among the Non-Medical Population in Bisha City, Saudi Arabia

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is a simple yet effective life-saving procedure that can significantly improve survival rates in emergencies when performed promptly and competently. Sudden cardiac arrest, a leading global cause of death, underscores the importance of timely CPR administration for successful resuscitation. This study aims to assess the knowledge and attitudes toward CPR among the non-medical population in Bisha, Saudi Arabia, in 2023. Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study surveyed 519 non-medical participants in Bisha City in 2023, utilizing an online survey. Data analysis was implemented by RStudio (R version 4.2.2.). Frequencies and percentages were used to express categorical variables, whereas numerical variables were presented as the median and interquartile range (IQR) Results: The study analyzed responses from 477 participants. The median CPR knowledge score was 7.0 (IQR: 5.0 to 8.0), ranging from one to 14. No significant differences in knowledge scores were observed across demographic groups. Of the participants, 42.8% exhibited a good knowledge level. Knowledge levels did not significantly differ based on demographic characteristics. Approximately 71.9% of participants had not received CPR training, mainly due to a lack of awareness about training locations. Nevertheless, 80.5% expressed a desire for CPR training

Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices of Military Personnel Regarding Heat-Related Illness.

Heat-related illnesses are a global concern, affecting millions of people and leading to numerous deaths annually. Since military personnel are exposed to heat,the purpose of the study was to evaluate military personnel's knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) related to heat-related illnesses. Their KAP may help to prevent heat-related illness. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study using a structured online questionnaire on 168 military personnel who were training and working in a high-temperature and high-humidity environment all year round in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. The questionnaire assessed the KAPand associated factors and was distributed as a Google Form. The mean knowledge score was 9.04 (range = 2-13, SD = 1.832), the mean awareness score was 9.61 (range = 4-15, SD = 2.415), and the mean practice score was 3.39 (range = 0-6, SD = 1.703). Most participants correctly identified symptoms(n=130; 77.4%). In terms of attitudes, most participants showed a good attitude (n=151; 81%), though 24.4% did not perceive the risk. Regarding practice, most were attentive to heat-related illness signs and hydration(75.6%),but there were gaps in receiving briefings from doctors (69%) and adequate guidance on treatment (56%). There was a split opinion on whether commanders adjust field activities based on temperature warnings (54.8% Yes, 45.2% No). There were no significant differences in knowledge scores based on age or educational level (both p>0.05), while some age and education-related differences were noted in practice scores (p<0.05). There was a positive correlation between knowledge and attitudes (r = 0.222, p = 0.004), knowledge and practices (r = 0.165, p = 0.033), and attitudes and practice (r=0.326, p < 0.001). Our study found that military personnel generally possess good knowledge of heat-related illnesses and good attitudes and practices concerning heat-related illnesses. However, there are areas in need of improvement, and enhancing awareness and practical implementation of preventive measures, along with the development of precise guidance and protocols, should involve active collaboration between military commanders and healthcare professionals.

Comparing knowledge, attitudes, and practices in cardiovascular disease prevention and health promotion between community and hospital pharmacists in Saudi Arabia: A cross-sectional study

PurposeSaudi Arabia is one of the leading nations in the world in terms of the high frequency of chronic diseases and their associated risk factors. Knowledge and awareness are crucial for pharmacists to play an active role in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases (CVD). The current study assessed the pharmacists' knowledge, attitude, and practice to determine the potential differences with respect to their respective practice settings toward CVD prevention and related health promotions. MethodsIt is a cross-sectional study targeted the registered pharmacists in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. An online questionnaire was prepared, and the link was circulated through various social media platforms. Descriptive statistics, multivariate linear regression analysis and chi square test were used to analyze the data accordingly. ResultsA total of 324 pharmacists were included in the study. Among these, 157 (48.4 %) were community pharmacists, and the remaining were hospital pharmacists (51.6 %). No significant differences in knowledge scores were observed between community and hospital pharmacists. The mean attitude score among community and hospital pharmacists was found to be 26.40 ± 5.125 and 25.09 ± 5.393 respectively, which was statistically significant (p = 0.026). Similarly, the total practice scores across the settings were statistically significant (p = 0.02). Gender plays a significant role in terms of knowledge scores among both community and hospital pharmacists (p = 0.016 & 0.029). Gender, professional practice experience, and number of prescriptions handled and prescriptions with CVD medications showed significant differences in the distribution of positive attitudes and good practice frequency between community and hospital pharmacists. ConclusionIt is evident that there is a deficiency in knowledge among hospital pharmacists compared to community pharmacists. Which indicates that there is a need for a rigorous continuous pharmacy education covering the fundamental aspects of CVD primary prevention and health promotion among pharmacists, given more focus on hospital pharmacists.

Pertinence of Salt-Related Knowledge and Reported Behaviour on Salt Intake in Adults: A Cross-Sectional Study.

The association between salt-related knowledge, attitude, behaviour (KAB) and actual salt consumption in Greek adults is uncertain. This study investigates the correlation between salt intake, gauged by 24-h urinary sodium excretion, with salt-related KAB. It further explores how socio-demographic factors influence these behaviors. Salt consumption was evaluated using a 24-h urinary sodium test, and compared to self-reported KAB data. Knowledge and behavior scores related to salt were computed. An overall cohort-adjusted model examined the relationship between daily salt consumption, knowledge and behavior scores, and certain covariates. Through the stratification by the cohort random effect, two models were established (Cohort I Adults; Cohort II Students) examining the same relationships of the overall cohort model. 463 Greek adults participated. The average salt intake was 9.54 g/day, nearly double the WHO recommendation. Significant differences in knowledge scores were noted based on sex, age, education, and BMI. A trend suggesting lower discretionary salt use with increased salt intake was observed (p = 0.06). However, comprehensive analysis revealed no direct correlation between salt intake and either knowledge (p = 0.562) or behavior scores (p = 0.210). The results emphasize the need for food product reforms by industry stakeholders and accelerated efforts towards reducing salt intake.

Comparison of awareness, attitudes and knowledge on human papilloma virus vaccination in Singapore: 2019 versus 2013.

This study aimed to assess the changes in the awareness, attitudes and knowledge regarding human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination among the local population. The secondary aims were to identify barriers and to evaluate the effectiveness of national HPV vaccination campaigns over a six-year period in Singapore. We conducted and compared two cross-sectional surveys in 2013 and 2019 among female participants attending a general gynaecology clinic. A total of 597 participants completed the survey in 2013 and 2019. The participants were comparable in their race, marital status, educational level, occupation and monthly household income. Knowledge scores for cervical cancer and HPV infection showed significant improvement from 2013 to 2019. There was no significant difference in knowledge scores for HPV vaccination, which resulted in similar uptake of the HPV vaccine. Age, educational level and knowledge of HPV vaccine were significant predictors of acceptance of the HPV vaccine. The top two reasons for declining the HPV vaccine were the lack of knowledge and cost, as noted in the 2019 survey. The Singapore government's efforts to improve cervical cancer awareness through national campaigns and policy changes have led to an improvement in knowledge of HPV infection. However, this has not translated into improvements in the vaccine acceptance rates. The decision for vaccine uptake is complex, and there are multiple factors to be addressed to ensure cost-effective implementation of the strategies. Our study highlights the need for effective dissemination of vaccine information, additional subsidies and consideration of a mandatory school-based vaccination programme.

Effectiveness Of Electronic Pediatric Triangle Assesment Flipchart To Nurse Knowledge

This study aims to determine the effectiveness of electronic PAT flipchart to the Nurse’s knowledge. The research is Quasi Experiment without control group. The sample was the nurses in the emergency room and the pediatric inpatient room who met inclusion and exclusion criteria.We collected sample using total sampling technique and collected 46 samples. Our study showed that knowledge score before the intervention was 16.37 and most of them had good knowledge, namely 38 (82.6) while after the intervention was 19.22 and most of them had good knowledge, namely 45 (97.8). We proved significant difference in knowledge scores before and after giving the PAT electronic flipchart (Pvalue=0.000).

Hand hygiene knowledge and demonstrated technique among Malawian kindergarten children: A quasi-experimental study.

To evaluate hand hygiene knowledge and demonstrated technique before and after implementation of the hand hygiene programme and its sustainability among Malawian kindergarten students. Quasi-experimental design, utilizing a repeated measure at three points, namely, before intervention (T0 ), soon after intervention (T1 ) and follow-up (T2 ). The hand hygiene programme consisted of integrating hand hygiene protocol into the school health curriculum, setting up proper handwashing facilities, training school teachers, health talks and developing reminders on hand hygiene. Fifty-three kindergarten children aged 3-6 years were enrolled in the programme. Data were collected at 3 months' intervals (T0 , T1 , and T2 ). Parents, teachers, school authorities and children were involved in the implementation and evaluation of the intervention, utilizing a multilevel approach. There was a significant difference in knowledge scores across three time points (T0 , T1 and T2 ), Chi-Square (2, n = 53) = 79.02, p < 0.005 and handwashing technique across the three time points, Chi-Square (2, n = 53) = 88.04, p < 0.005. There was a large effect size of 0.62 on the effect of handwashing technique scores from T0 to T1.

Knowledge in Dealing with The COVID-19 Based on The Guidance of Al-Quran and Al-Sunnah: A Cross-Sectional Survey Among The Pharmacy and Health Sciences Diploma Students in Malaysia

INTRODUCTION: Medicine and communicable disease control are embedded in many Islamic teachings as conveyed by the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) through the Al-Quran, Al-sunnah, and Al-hadith more than 1400 years ago. Therefore, when the COVID-19 outbreak hits Malaysia, with the majority of the population being Muslims, the society should be equipped with knowledge in dealing with this pandemic. This study investigates the knowledge towards dealing with COVID-19 based on the guidance of Al-Quran and Al-Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) among undergraduate students in Malaysia. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional study using self-constructed questionnaires was performed. The questionnaires were pre-validated and distributed to pharmacy and health sciences students via an online survey platform. One of the selection criteria was that the respondent must be a Muslim. RESULTS: The students scored a median of 26 (IQR 4) in the knowledge test. Students’ percentage knowledge levels were divided into three categories: poor (n = 42, 15%); moderate (n = 207, 73%) and good (n = 33, 12%). The lowest scored knowledge item was observed on the Islamic terminology, Maqasid Shariah (4.3%), and differences between hadith and sunnah (20.9%). No significant differences in knowledge scores were observed in the pre-determined independent variables such as age, year of study, accommodation, and previous religious school admission. CONCLUSION: The study findings suggest that the students have a good understanding of scientific aspects of COVID-19 but lack knowledge in handling the pandemic as recommended by Al-Quran and Al-Sunnah.

Effectiveness of Structure Teaching Programme on Knowledge Regarding Genetic Disorders and Attitude Towards Preventive Measures for Genetic Disorders among Undergraduates at Higher Educational Institute.

AbstractGenetic disorders may be hereditary or non-hereditary meaning that they are transfers from the parent’s genes. But insome genetic disorder’s defects may be caused by new mutations, altered phenotype or changes to the DNA. A changemay occur that brings about changes in the number or position of any or more genes. This changing of the structure ofparticular chromosomes is also called chromosomal mutation or chromosomal rearrangement. An evaluative approachwith simple random sampling technique were used for the study. The study sample consisted of (n=54) in selected highereducational institute. Pre-test were taken on first and total 2 hours intervention programme was administered on thegenetic disorders. Post -test was conducted after completion of intervention programme.Findings of StudyIn the present study it was found that all students ( 100 %) are in the age group of 18-21 years. Gender of students are50% male and 50% female. Study shows the student had average knowledge regarding genetic disorders and strongpositive attitude towards preventive measures for genetic disorders and after implementing intervention programme theknowledge level is increased and the very strong positive attitude was developed. There is a significant association ofattitude score with demographic variables such as previous history of genetic counseling. Study shows there is significantdifference in knowledge score between males and females. About attitude part After implementing interventionprogrammed. It shows males had more positive attitude than females about preventive measures for genetic disordersand there was no any significant difference in attitude score between males and females.

Preclinical 3D-printed laboratory simulation of deep caries and the exposed pulp reduced student anxiety and stress, while increasing confidence and knowledge in vital pulp treatment.

AimTo evaluate the impact of a preclinical laboratory session using 3D printed teeth on dental student stress, anxiety, confidence and knowledge when treating deep caries and pulp exposure.MethodologyThis was a two‐centre controlled study, with randomized distribution of students into two groups: a vital pulp treatment (VPT) lecture‐only (control) group and a VPT‐lecture combined with a VPT‐laboratory (experimental) group. In both universities, preclinical students with endodontic or operative dentistry laboratory sessions could participate. All students were invited to the lecture. Two weeks later (timepoint‐T1), both groups completed validated and bespoke questionnaires and scales to evaluate their stress (Stress‐VAS), anxiety (STAI Trait [T] and State [S]), self‐confidence and knowledge. Thereafter, only the experimental group attended the hands‐on laboratory session demonstrating the techniques of selective caries removal and partial pulpotomy on a commercial 3D‐printed tooth. Two weeks later (timepoint‐T2), the participants from both groups repopulated the same questionnaires and VAS. The control group had the laboratory session after the completion of the study. The statistical analysis was performed with Statistica® (significance p = .05). The homogeneity between the two samples was checked by Khi2 and Student tests. Stress‐VAS, STAI‐S, confidence and knowledge scores were compared within each group, and between the two groups, at T1 and T2, with a repeated measures anova test (+/−Tukey post‐hoc test).ResultsThe groups comprised 54 students each, with no statistical difference between the groups regarding demographic, academic data and STAI‐T score. The two groups had no significant difference of Stress‐VAS, STAI‐S, confidence and knowledge scores at T1 while they presented a significant difference in stress, anxiety and confidence scores at T2, but with no significant difference in knowledge score. However, knowledge score, as other parameters, improved significantly between T1 and T2 in the experimental group.ConclusionsThe addition of a laboratory session using 3D‐printed teeth that simulated deep caries and pulp exposure management, significantly reduced the stress and anxiety of students and increased their confidence. Within the limitations of this study, the benefit of introducing new technology in increasing student confidence and reducing stress offers opportunity for educational improvement in the VPT and cariology areas.

Reduce, Reuse and Recycle (3r) Awareness Programme to Increase the Knowledge, Attitude and Practice on 3r among Primary School Students

One of the issues of ineffective solid waste management may be attributable by human behaviour is lack of education and ineffectiveness of reduce, reuse and recycle (3R) awareness programmes, which the solution may lie in changing that behaviour. Therefore, a 3R programme was conducted to increase the knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP) on 3R among 155 primary school students recruited by systematic random sampling from year one to six at a selected school in Tumpat, Kelantan. A set of questionnaire was given before and after the 3R programme to determine their KAP level and the effectiveness of the awareness programme in increasing their KAP on 3R. There was a significant difference in knowledge score (p = 0.030) but no significant differences in scores of attitude (p = 0.484) and practice (p=0.248) between before and after 3R programme. There was a weak correlation between knowledge and attitude (r=0.320) and between knowledge and practice (r=0.386) for before the 3R programme. There was also moderate correlation between attitude and practice (r=0.400) before the intervention programme. After the intervention programme, the correlation was increased from weak to strong correlation between knowledge and attitude (r=0.614) and weak to moderate correlation between knowledge and practice (r=0.476). There was moderate correlation between attitude and practice after the intervention programme (r=0.520). Hence, continuous awareness on 3R campaign and activities should be conducted at an early age among the students to increase their practices on 3R.

Basic life support knowledge in a war-torn country: a survey of nurses in Yemen

BackgroundSuccessful implementation of Basic life support (BLS) is critical to improving survival rates and outcomes, especially among healthcare workers. To our knowledge, there is no available literature pertaining to the level of BLS knowledge of health care professionals in Yemen.MethodsData was collected for this cross-sectional descriptive study from June to August 2020, using a 10-item questionnaire related to cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and BLS, along with questions on socio-demographic characteristics. Participants were nurses in public and private hospitals located in Al-Rahida and Al-dimna cities, Taiz governance and Hodeidah city, Hodeidah governance in Yemen.ResultsOut of 220 distributed questionnaires, 200 were returned with a response rate of 90.9%. More than a half (53.65%) of answer choices for BLS knowledge were correct. There was a significant difference in knowledge score based on level of education where those who had Bachelor degree had more knowledge (P = 0.000). Those who said they had received training in CPR or received information about CPR had significantly higher scores than those who did not receive (P = 0.000).ConclusionsBLS knowledge among nurses in Yemen is below an acceptable level to ensure maximum survival in the event of cardiac arrest. Disseminating BLS information and training in a cost effective and efficient manner will provide a large benefit in terms of lives saved with minimal costs.

Effectiveness of An Educational Program on Elementary Schools’ Teachers' Knowledge about Autism Spectrum Disorders

Background: World Health Organization mentioned that people with autism have a wide range of abilities and requirements, which might change over time. While some persons with autism are able to live independently, others have severe difficulties that necessitate lifelong care and assistance. Autism has a significant influence on schooling and employment prospects. Objective(s): This study aims to determine the effectiveness of an educational program on elementary schools’ teachers' knowledge about autism spectrum disorders. Methodology: A quasi-experimental design (purposive study) used to guide this study, it was applied by the use of pre-post- test approach for two groups of samples (case and control) to determine the effectiveness of an educational program on elementary schools’ teachers' knowledge about autism spectrum disorder in Al-Diwaniyah Educational Directorate during the period from (25th September, 2021) to (1st April, 2022). A non-probability purposive sample was selected from all the schools’ teachers. The total number of teachers who attended to the chosen place during the study period and who fulfilled the study criteria was (50). These (50) teachers were divided into two groups (25) teachers as a group of cases who are exposed to the educational program and (25) teachers who were not exposed to the educational program as a control group. Results of the study: The results exhibit that educational program is highly effective on teachers’ knowledge about autism spectrum disorder in in the study group evidenced by high significant difference in total score of knowledge with regard to post-test at p-value=0.001 respectively. While in the control group, it shows no significant difference in knowledge score. Conclusion: The researcher concludes that the education program was successful in improving the knowledge of the teachers about autism spectrum disorders. This conclusion is illustrated by the statistical methods that display there is an improvement in the study sample knowledge at post-test compared with the pre-test. Recommendations: Educational lectures and workshops should be conducted regularly, updated, and circulated to all teaching staff in elementary schools. Providing elementary schools with an educational booklet prepared by the researcher. Keywords: Effectiveness, Educational Program, Elementary Schools, Teachers, Knowledge, Autism Spectrum Disorders.

Knowledge about the Risk of Cardiovascular Disease among Adults with Type 2 Diabetes Visiting the Outpatient Clinics at Tertiary Hospital in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Background: One of the primary goals of diabetes management is to prevent cardiovascular events. The rate of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) is significantly high in the diabetic population. Inadequate knowledge of CVDs risk in diabetes may result in the failure of its early prevention, causing increased morbidity and mortality. The objectives of this study were to assess the CVD risk knowledge and determine the predictors of the knowledge among adults with type 2 diabetes. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted to examine the study objectives. Convenience sampling was used to recruit adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) who visited the King Saud University Medical City (KSUMC) outpatient clinics. Data were collected using the Heart Disease Fact Questionnaire. SPSS software (version 24.0) was used for data analysis. Results: A total of 383 patients were recruited. The level of CVD risk knowledge was high among all participants (19.04 ± 3.47). There were significant differences in knowledge scores between different groups, including age (p = 0.01), marital status (p = 0.01), and type of residence (p = 0.04). Participants who were older than 40 years, married, and lived in traditional houses had higher knowledge scores. Conclusion: The study findings indicated a high level of CVD risk knowledge in our study population. The presence of multidisciplinary intensive education programmes targeting type 2 DM patients, such as that conducted at KSUMC, might be responsible for the higher levels of knowledge among our study population. Thus, increasing the efforts towards the education of patients will improve the level of knowledge, including CVD risk knowledge.

Assessment of Facilitating Factors and Barriers Faced by the Mothers for Prevention of Home Accidents among Preschool Children: A Comparative Study in Selected Urban and Rural Community of West Bengal

Introduction: A comparative survey was conducted from December 2019 to January 2020 to assess and compare facilitating factors and barriers faced by mothers of preschool children for the prevention of home accidents among conveniently selected 120 mothers in the selected urban and rural communities of West Bengal. Method: Data were collected using semi-structured and structured questionnaires, 3-point rating scale, and an observational checklist. Result: The study results stated that there was no significant difference in knowledge score and stated practice between urban and rural community mothers (‘t’ = 0.984 at p ˂ 0.05) and (‘t’ = 1.718 at p ˂ 0.05) but there was a significant difference in observed practice between urban and rural community mothers (‘t’ = 6.505 at p ˂ 0.05). There was no significant difference between the barriers of urban and rural community mothers (‘t’ = -0.833 at p ˂ 0.05). In this study, there was a significant association between the knowledge score of participants and information received about home accidents, facilitating factors and type of family, and between barriers and mother’s age in the rural community. In the urban community, there was a significant association between the knowledge score of participants and information received about home accidents, and between facilitating factors and mother’s age. There was no significant association between the barriers and any demographic variable. Conclusion: Child safety is a social value that demands attention hence, this study findings therefore call for prompt and target group interventions.

The Influence of Pre-Marriage Class on Knowledge of Bride and Groom in Prevention of Stunting Toddlers

The direct causes of stunting under five are inadequate food consumption and infectious diseases. The two direct causal factors are closely related to the quality of parenting. Efforts to handle stunting toddlers must be carried out as early as possible, not only since the mother is pregnant but must be carried out since the mother is still a prospective bride. In this context, it is necessary to find a model for the development of training for prospective brides that is in accordance with the needs in preventing stunting under five and seeing its effectiveness. This study will use a combination of descriptive observational design and quasi-experimental design. The research population is prospective brides in Kemiling District, and the sample is determined by accident, namely prospective brides who have registered at KUA Kemiling District until July 2021. Data collection for the development of pre-wedding classes is carried out by means of FGD and interviews, while to assess the effect of class pre-marriage used a quasi-experimental design with pre and post-test approaches. The analysis was carried out descriptively (frequency distribution) to determine the pre-marital class and bivariate analysis (dependent and independent test) to determine the effect of pre-marital class on the knowledge of the prospective bride and groom in preventing stunting under five. The results showed that the standard competencies needed by prospective brides to prevent stunting under five were exclusive breastfeeding, complementary feeding, balanced nutrition, monitoring of toddler growth, infectious diseases in children, pregnancy, and reproductive health. In the case group that was given treatment in the form of leaflets and premarital classes, there was an increase in knowledge scores between 78.9% to 125.6%, while in the control group which was only given leaflets the increase in knowledge scores only rose by 25.9% to 91.6 %. The results of the dependent test showed that there was a significant difference in knowledge scores between before and after treatment. Meanwhile, the results of the independent test showed that there was a significant difference in knowledge scores on exclusive breastfeeding (p=0.000), complementary feeding (p=0.019), child growth monitoring (p=0.002), pregnancy (p=0.001), and reproductive health (p=0.001). = 0.020) between the two groups.