Document Type : Original Article
Authors
1 Department of Physiology, GIMS, Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India
2 Department of General Medicine, GIMS, Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India
3 Department of Pediatrics, GIMS, Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The ongoing coronavirus disease pandemic caused by a
novel genetically‑mutated strain of coronavirus has posed a tremendous challenge to healthcare
professionals, worldwide. This study aimed to explore the healthcare professionals’ knowledge,
attitudes, and practices (KAP) related to coronavirus disease in Western Uttar Pradesh and provide
data to improve awareness about this disease and remove the knowledge gap, if any, by disseminating
the updated information to the corona warriors.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross‑sectional survey was conducted in the form of a structured
28‑item online questionnaire using SurveyMonkey software. The qualitative data were coded
numerically, and the KAP score was calculated. Pearson Chi‑square test was used to study the
association, among variables.
RESULTS: Of 509 respondents, 296 (58.19%) were males and 213 (41.81%) were females. The
median age bracket of the sample was 20–40 years. By profession, 255 (50.10%) were doctors,
167 (32.74%) were medical students, 80 (15.78%) were other healthcare workers, and a minority 7
(1.38%) were the nursing staff. Educational status covered a range from secondary (2.01%) to senior
secondary (17.51%) to bachelors and equivalent (29.18%) to masters and equivalent (51.31%). The
average KAP scores were 54%, and the score was highest among doctors as compared to other
healthcare professionals (P < 0.001).
CONCLUSIONS: In light of these study findings, we conclude that healthcare professionals are aware
of coronavirus disease. However, the overall KAP score regarding its clinical course, preventive
strategies, and judicious use of personal protective equipment was less than expected. There is
a need to address all misconceptions and empower the corona warriors with the right information
through effective mass media communication and reinforcement through seminars and workshops
in the medical institutes and hospitals. The healthcare professionals are a cornerstone to prevent
the nosocomial and community spread of this pandemic.
Keywords
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