ASSESSMENT OF THE LEVEL OF KNOWLEDGE OF HEALTHCARE PROVIDERS ON EBOLA VIRUS DISEASE: A SURVEY AT A PUBLIC DISTRICT HOSPITAL IN GHANA
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.71396/0st1t625Keywords:
Ebola, universal precautions, healthcare workers, epidemic preparedness, infection controlAbstract
Background: Ebola virus disease (EVD) is a highly contagious, often fatal illness that poses significant occupational risks to healthcare workers (HCWs). Compliance with universal precaution practices is essential to curtail its transmission.
Objective: To ascertain the level of knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding EVD among healthcare providers at a district hospital in Ghana, and to assess institutional preparedness against potential outbreaks.
Methods: A cross-sectional survey of 30 healthcare workers was conducted using structured questionnaires. Data were analyzed with SPSS v16, with Chi-square tests used to evaluate associations. A p-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant.
Results: Physicians demonstrated significantly higher compliance with universal precautions compared to nurses and other staff (p=0.017). Overall, 80% reported difficulties complying with precautionary measures, citing PPE shortages. Institutional preparedness for an EVD outbreak was poor according to 73.3% of participants.
Conclusion: Despite high awareness, actual compliance with EVD precautionary practices remains insufficient. There is an urgent need for strengthened training, resource allocation, and health system reforms.
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