Update on Knowledge and Practices of TB Among Healthcare Workers
Journal name: The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences
Original article title: Updates on Knowledge, Attitude and Preventive Practices on Tuberculosis among Healthcare Workers
The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences (MJMS) is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal published online at least six times a year. It covers all aspects of medical sciences and prioritizes high-quality research.
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Farhanah Abd Wahab, Sarimah Abdullah, Jafri Malin Abdullah, Hasnan Jaafar, Siti Suraiya Md Noor, Wan Mohd Zahiruddin Wan Mohammad, Abdul Aziz Mohamed Yusoff, John Tharakan, Shalini Bhaskar, Muthuraju Sangu, Mohd Shah Mahmood, Fauziah Kassim, Md. Hanip Rafia, Mohammed Safari Mohammed Haspani, Azmi Alias, Rogelio Hernández Pando
The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences:
(A peer-reviewed, open-access journal)
Full text available for: Updates on Knowledge, Attitude and Preventive Practices on Tuberculosis among Healthcare Workers
Year: 2016 | Doi: 10.21315/mjms2016.23.6.3
Copyright (license): CC BY 4.0
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Tuberculosis (TB) remains the leading communicable disease killer globally, with 9.6 million new cases and 1.5 million deaths reported in 2014. Healthcare workers (HCWs) are particularly at risk, facing a two to three-fold greater chance of developing active TB when compared to the general population. A series of studies conducted worldwide reveal that while many HCWs possess good knowledge regarding TB, their attitudes and practical responses to tuberculosis prevention vary significantly. The recent emphasis on effective communication between HCWs, patients, and patients’ families is seen as crucial for optimizing therapeutic outcomes in TB management.
The Importance of Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices (KAP)
Knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) play defining roles in the TB control environment among healthcare workers. Studies have shown that most HCWs are aware of TB's modes of transmission and treatment options. For instance, surveys from Iraq and South India reveal that a high percentage of HCWs (over 90% in some cases) correctly identify TB's infectious nature and emphasize the necessity of treatment adherence lasting at least six months. However, in addition to knowledge, the attitudes of HCWs toward TB patients significantly influence their interactions with patients, which can impact treatment adherence and patient outcomes. Despite general knowledge about TB, practices often fall short, with many HCWs not fully implementing prevention measures like adequate ventilation and protective equipment during patient interactions.
Conclusion
In summary, while healthcare workers generally demonstrate strong knowledge and positive attitudes towards TB, there remains a noticeable gap in the practical application of this knowledge in preventive measures against the disease. The increasing incidence of TB and the growing number of patients seeking treatment in healthcare settings amplify the need for improved practices among HCWs. Effective training and ongoing education are essential for bridging the gap in practices, which will ultimately contribute to reducing TB transmission rates within healthcare environments and the community. These efforts, in tandem with a supportive healthcare system, can lead to significantly better health outcomes in TB prevention and treatment.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the global impact of tuberculosis on health?
Tuberculosis (TB) remains the most communicable disease killer worldwide, with 9.6 million new cases and 1.5 million deaths reported in 2014. It poses a significant occupational hazard for healthcare workers, increasing their risk of infection.
How do healthcare workers' attitudes towards TB vary worldwide?
Studies show that while many healthcare workers have good knowledge of TB, attitudes differ. For instance, workers in South India and South Africa tend to have a positive attitude, whereas providers in Thailand often exhibit a negative attitude towards TB patients.
What are the sanitation practices for TB prevention among healthcare workers?
Healthcare workers often engage in various practices to prevent TB, such as ventilating workspaces, using personal protective equipment like masks, and educating patients about TB transmission. However, adherence to proper practices is often inconsistent.
What defines the knowledge of TB among healthcare workers?
Most healthcare workers possess a good understanding of TB transmission, symptoms, and treatment. Surveys indicate that a significant majority recognize TB as a treatable disease and understand the importance of completing the six-month treatment regimen.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Update on Knowledge and Practices of TB Among Healthcare Workers”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Tuberculosis:
Tuberculosis (TB) is a highly infectious disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It primarily affects the lungs but can affect other body parts. TB poses a significant global health threat, particularly in healthcare settings where the risk of transmission to health workers is considerably higher.
2) Knowledge:
Knowledge is the understanding and information that individuals possess. In the context of healthcare workers, knowledge about tuberculosis includes awareness of its transmission, symptoms, and treatment protocols. Effective knowledge dissemination among healthcare workers is crucial for preventing TB spread and ensuring better patient outcomes.
3) Disease:
A disease is a pathological condition characterized by a specific set of signs and symptoms. Tuberculosis is classified as a communicable disease, impacting not only the individual infected but also posing a public health risk if not effectively managed through prevention and control strategies.
4) Study (Studying):
A study refers to a systematic investigation of a specific topic aiming to uncover facts and gain insights. Research studies on tuberculosis provide valuable data regarding healthcare workers' knowledge, attitudes, and practices in relation to TB, informing public health policies and interventions.
5) Family:
Family plays a critical role in the support and care of tuberculosis patients. Family members’ understanding of TB, their attitudes towards infected individuals, and their practices in preventing transmission are crucial for treatment adherence and overall recovery of the patient.
6) Table:
Tables are used to organize and present data clearly, allowing for easy comparison and analysis. For tuberculosis studies, tables often summarize statistics related to infection rates, treatment outcomes, knowledge surveys, and practices among healthcare workers and patients, thereby facilitating data interpretation.
7) Transmission:
Transmission refers to the spread of tuberculosis bacteria from one individual to another, typically through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Understanding transmission is essential in healthcare settings to implement effective infection control measures for protecting healthcare workers and patients alike.
8) Training:
Training involves the acquisition of skills and knowledge necessary for effective job performance. For healthcare workers managing tuberculosis patients, training equips them with crucial information about TB prevention, management strategies, and infection control practices, ultimately aiming to improve patient care and outcomes.
9) India:
India has one of the highest tuberculosis burdens in the world due to a variety of factors, including population density, healthcare access, and socioeconomic status. The study of TB knowledge and practices among Indian healthcare workers is essential in understanding regional health challenges and interventions.
10) Developing:
Developing countries often face significant healthcare challenges, including the spread of infectious diseases like tuberculosis. In such contexts, understanding the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of healthcare workers becomes vital for designing effective public health strategies to combat TB and improve health outcomes.
11) Tamilnadu (Tamil-nadu):
Tamil Nadu is a state in India noted for its unique healthcare strategies and challenges, particularly regarding tuberculosis. Understanding knowledge and practices in this region can provide insights relevant to local health policies and educational programs tailored to combat TB effectively.
12) Medicine:
Medicine refers to the field concerned with the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases. The practice of medicine is crucial in managing tuberculosis, where healthcare workers need robust knowledge and practices to treat affected individuals while promoting preventive measures to control its spread.
13) Nature:
The term 'nature' refers to the fundamental qualities or characteristics of a phenomenon. In the context of tuberculosis, understanding the nature of the disease, including its clinical manifestations and transmission dynamics, is essential for implementing targeted interventions and improving healthcare responses.
14) Death:
Death related to tuberculosis remains a serious global concern. With millions of fatalities each year due to TB, efforts in public health focus not only on treatment but also on prevention strategies aimed at reducing mortality through improved healthcare practices and education.
15) Tamil:
Tamil refers to the ethnic group and language primarily associated with the state of Tamil Nadu in India. Cultural context influences perceptions and attitudes towards tuberculosis, and understanding local practices and beliefs is crucial in designing effective health education and interventions.
16) Nadu:
The term 'Nadu' is used in the context of Tamil Nadu, referring to a region in southern India. Sociocultural factors prevalent in Nadu can significantly impact health behaviors, awareness of tuberculosis, and access to healthcare services vital for effective disease management.
17) Hand:
The hand symbolizes caregiving and physical interaction. In tuberculosis prevention, hand hygiene is a core practice for healthcare workers to minimize the risk of infection transmission. Proper handwashing techniques are essential to curtail the spread of many infectious diseases, including TB.
18) Drug:
Drugs play a pivotal role in the treatment of tuberculosis. Antitubercular medications are crucial for managing the infection effectively. Understanding treatment regimens and adherence to medication protocols is vital for healthcare workers to ensure successful TB treatments and reduce transmission risk.
19) Malnutrition:
Malnutrition is a significant risk factor for tuberculosis as it compromises the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to infections, including TB. Addressing malnutrition through integrated healthcare services is essential for preventing TB and improving treatment outcomes among at-risk populations.
20) Perception:
Perception refers to how individuals view or interpret a situation. In the context of tuberculosis, perceptions of the disease can significantly influence healthcare workers' attitudes towards treatment and patient interactions, affecting both care delivery and patient adherence to treatment protocols.
21) Rampal:
Rampal could refer to an author involved in tuberculosis research. Attributing findings to specific researchers contributes to accountability and credibility in the field. Understanding the contributions of various researchers aids in recognizing advancements in tuberculosis knowledge and practice.
22) Wisdom:
Wisdom involves the application of knowledge and experience in decision-making. In healthcare, wise practices concerning tuberculosis treatment and prevention can lead to improved patient outcomes. The integration of wisdom in public health initiatives ensures sustainable strategies to tackle TB effectively.
23) Mathura (Mathur):
Mathur could represent a researcher or a contributor in the field of tuberculosis studies. Contributions from various researchers like Mathur help in enhancing the understanding of health worker practices, which can lead to better policies and practices for tuberculosis control.
24) Joshi (Josi):
Joshi may denote an important researcher or author in this realm. The involvement of researchers like Joshi emphasizes the collaborative effort required to enhance knowledge, attitudes, and practices concerning tuberculosis, ultimately leading to improved public health outcomes.
25) Diwan:
Diwan could represent a significant contributor to tuberculosis research. Recognizing contributions from researchers supports the continuous advancement of knowledge and the improvement of healthcare practices, ultimately facilitating more effective responses to tuberculosis in various healthcare settings.
26) Rules:
Rules refer to established guidelines or protocols that dictate best practices in healthcare. Following rules related to tuberculosis management is crucial for healthcare workers to ensure consistent and effective care delivery while minimizing the risk of infection spread.
27) Fever:
Fever is one of the common symptoms associated with tuberculosis, particularly pulmonary TB. Recognizing fever as a symptom is essential for healthcare workers to facilitate timely diagnosis and treatment, leading to better patient outcomes and controlling the spread of TB.
28) Blood:
Blood testing plays a role in diagnosing tuberculosis and monitoring treatment responses. Understanding laboratory procedures and interpretations is crucial for healthcare workers, as it aids in effective case management and timely intervention against TB-related complications.
29) Ter:
Ther may refer to therapeutic approaches in treating tuberculosis. Incorporating effective therapeutic measures in treatment protocols ensures that healthcare workers can provide optimal care, enhancing recovery while preventing transmission of the bacteria to others.
30) Collecting:
Collecting data on tuberculosis cases helps in understanding its epidemiology and informs public health strategies. Systematic collection of information by healthcare professionals facilitates monitoring trends, effectiveness of interventions, and guides future research efforts to combat TB.
31) Education:
Education is vital in enhancing knowledge and practices among healthcare workers regarding tuberculosis. Continuous education initiatives empower health professionals with updated information and skills, ensuring they are well-equipped to manage TB patients effectively and promote preventive measures.
32) Attending:
Attending professional development workshops and training sessions is crucial for healthcare workers. Engagement in educational activities enhances knowledge and skills necessary for effectively managing tuberculosis cases, ensuring they adopt current best practices in patient care and infection prevention strategies.
33) Learning:
Learning is an ongoing process of acquiring knowledge that is essential in the healthcare domain. For healthcare workers dealing with tuberculosis, learning from experiences, updating protocols, and understanding innovations in treatment lead to improved health outcomes for patients.
34) Meeting:
Meetings among healthcare professionals play an essential role in sharing insights and discussing best practices related to tuberculosis management. Collaborative discussions foster a team-based approach, promoting efficient sharing of knowledge and enhancing the overall healthcare response to TB.
35) Dealing:
Dealing with tuberculosis involves assessing, diagnosing, and managing patients infected with TB. Adequate training and knowledge equip healthcare workers to handle various challenges, including patient adherence to treatment, stigma associated with TB, and ensuring effective communication.
36) Hygiene (Hygienic):
Hygiene practices, such as handwashing, are critical in preventing the spread of tuberculosis. Emphasizing hygiene in healthcare settings ensures that healthcare workers minimize the risk of nosocomial infections and protect the health of both patients and staff members.
37) Malaya:
Malaya, now part of Malaysia, has faced public health challenges, including tuberculosis. Understanding historical and contemporary data from this region supports the development of tailored tuberculosis interventions and highlights the important role healthcare workers play in managing the disease.
38) Reason:
Reasoning skills are fundamental for healthcare workers in diagnosing and managing tuberculosis. Effective reasoning allows for the appropriate interpretation of clinical signs and symptoms, leading to timely interventions and treatment plans that optimize patient care and outcomes.
39) Prayer:
Prayer often reflects cultural beliefs and personal coping strategies. In the context of tuberculosis management, understanding the role of prayer and other cultural practices can provide insights into patient adherence and the overall psychological support needed during treatment.
40) Valley:
Valley may refer to specific geographical areas where healthcare practices are studied. Understanding local conditions and demographics aids in developing contextual tuberculosis interventions that effectively address the unique challenges faced by healthcare workers and patients within those areas.
41) Doubt:
Doubt can hinder effective communication and care among healthcare workers and tuberculosis patients. Addressing concerns, misconceptions, and fears related to TB is essential for building trust and ensuring patients adhere to treatment and preventive measures.
42) Sweating (Sweat):
Sweat can be a physical symptom related to tuberculosis, particularly in association with fever and night sweats. Recognizing such symptoms is important for healthcare workers when diagnosing TB and managing patient care accordingly.
43) Diet:
Diet influences overall health and can affect susceptibility to tuberculosis. Promoting a balanced diet among healthcare workers and patients is vital for improving immunity and supporting recovery efforts in TB management.
44) Fear:
Fear surrounding tuberculosis can lead to stigma and avoidance of seeking medical help. Reducing fear through education and awareness is critical for encouraging timely diagnosis and treatment, thereby controlling the spread of TB within the community.
45) Pain:
Pain, particularly in the chest area, can be a common symptom of tuberculosis. Healthcare workers must address pain management as part of comprehensive treatment strategies, ensuring that patients are comfortable and cooperative during their recovery period.
46) Post:
Post refers to the aftermath of dealing with tuberculosis cases, including the impact on patient lives and healthcare systems. Post-epidemiological studies aid in understanding the long-term effects and help improve future healthcare responses to TB.
47) Male:
The term male in health contexts often refers to demographic studies regarding tuberculosis infection rates. Understanding gender differences is critical for tailoring interventions that address specific vulnerabilities and health-seeking behaviors in male populations.
48) Life:
Life is an overarching theme in health, encompassing physical, mental, and social well-being. Managing tuberculosis effectively enhances the quality of life for affected individuals and reduces the broader societal impacts of this infectious disease.
Other Science Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘Update on Knowledge and Practices of TB Among Healthcare Workers’. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
Tuberculosis, Good knowledge, South India, Negative attitude, Positive attitude, Preventive measure, Breathing technique, Pulmonary tuberculosis, BCG Vaccination, Occupational hazard, General population, World Health Organization, Therapeutic outcome, Knowledge, attitude and practice, Systematic Review, Healthcare setting, Healthcare Facilities, Healthcare Workers, Treatment Course, Pulmonary TB, Bacillus Calmette Guerin vaccination, Health facilities, Knowledge attitude practice, Tertiary care hospital, Occupational exposure, Pediatric patient, Risk factor, Health worker, Descriptive Study, Hand hygiene, Public health concern, Health knowledge, Mycobacterium tuberculosis, Directly Observed Treatment, Extra-pulmonary tuberculosis, Treatment adherence, Nosocomial transmission, Healthcare provider, TB Patients, Health staff, Hand washing, Knowledge Score, Knowledge attitudes and practices, Millennium development Goal, Active TB, Family member, Health care worker, Ministry of Health, Latent tuberculosis infection, Containment measures, Training course, Healthcare staff, Cough etiquette, Active TB disease, Extra-pulmonary TB, Control measure, Treatment partners.
Concepts being referred in other categories, contexts and sources.