Knowledge, Attitude, Practice and associated factors towards Hepatitis B infection among Health Care Workers and Medical Students at tertiary care hospital in North India
Knowledge, Attitude, Practice towards Hepatitis B among Health Care Workers and Medical Students
Abstract
ABSTRACT
Background: Hepatitis B represents a significant global public health challenge. India is in the intermediate endemicity zone with hepatitis B surface antigen prevalence among general population ranging from 2% to 8%. Among health care workers, seroprevalence is two to four times higher than that of general population therefore it can be prevented with strategies like safe and effective vaccination, increasing awareness and by adhering to universal precautions.
Objective: To assess the knowledge, attitude and practice regarding Hepatitis B among health care workers and medical students
Material and Methods: This is analytical cross-sectional study conducted among 345
health care workers and medical students of Government Medical College Amritsar and
associated tertiary care Guru Nanak Dev Hospital, Amritsar from March to April 2024 using
semi-structured, pretested questionnaire.
Results: Among 345 participants, correct response towards Knowledge, Attitude and Practice were given by 79%, 85% and 55% respectively. 84.25 % knew about the mode of transmission of hepatitis B virus. Only 56.2% of the participants had completed vaccination. In this study, a clear association was observed between higher educational attainment and increased awareness, as well as adoption of favorable practices.
Conclusion: Although study participants exhibited high levels of knowledge and positive attitudes, their practices fell short of expectations. Consequently, implementing periodic workshops and symposia focused on safe workplace practices could effectively enhance awareness and reinforce adherence to standard guidelines.
Keywords: Knowledge, Attitude, Practice, Hepatitis B infection, Health Care Workers, Medical Students
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References
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