Knowledge, attitude and practices towards prevention of Tuberculosis among healthcare workers at Masaka regional referral hospital. A cross sectional study.

Abstract

Introduction: Globally it is a public threat to all ages of population but most prominent in population with weakened immunity. The aim of this study was to determine the knowledge, attitude, and preventive practices on TB among healthcare workers in Masaka regional referral hospital.

Methods: A cross-sectional study design was conducted in which quantitative data collection methods and 120 participants were selected to take part in the study. Random sampling technique was used to determine the sample size. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data. Data was well analyzed using tables accordingly.

Results: Of the 120 healthcare workers, majority 39(32.5%) were in the age group 41-49 years, most of the respondents were females being 58(48.3%) than males who were 51(42.5%).Most of the healthcare workers were diploma holders being 57(47.7%), followed by bachelor holders who were 26(21.5%) then certificate level with a number 24(20%) ,then least but not last masters level being 06(5%). Knowledge levels on whether TB is curable was analyzed using a graph 88.3% replied yes as well as healthcare workers attitude on if TB is a stigmatizing disease 89% agreed it was and were well presented. Healthcare workers knowledge on if only patients with active TB spread the infection,77.5% agreed and attitude on if HCWs felt TB was a major threat in Masaka were analyzed using pie charts,95.8% believed it was.

Conclusion: majority of participants had good knowledge levels and attitude towards tuberculosis infection control and significant gaps were found in implementing prevention practices among healthcare workers themselves.

Recommendation: political leaders need to continue health education and providing necessary supplies for TB control, promote TB prevention and control activities in order to eradicate the infection. Healthcare workers were urged to implement the preventive measures.