Knowledge and Awareness of Respiratory Care Unit (RCU) Healthcare Providers Regarding Transmissible Pathogens in the RCU

Zhian Salah  Jalal

doi:10.51699/cajmns.v7i4.3394

Authors

Zhian Salah Jalal Master of Nursing Science, Kirkuk Health Directorate, Kirkuk, Iraq

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.51699/cajmns.v7i4.3394

Keywords:

Respiratory care unit, Healthcare providers, Transmissible pathogens, knowledge, Awareness

Abstract

Introduction: The healthcare providers in respiratory care units are at increased risk of exposure to transmissible pathogens due to close contact with patients and involvement in aerosol-generating procedures. Adequate knowledge and awareness of transmissible pathogens are essential to reduce the risk of healthcare-associated infections and ensure the safety of patients and healthcare providers. The study aimed to assess the knowledge and awareness of healthcare providers in respiratory care units regarding transmissible pathogens. Method: A descriptive (cross-sectional) study was conducted among (42) respiratory care unit healthcare providers at Azadi Teaching Hospital in Kirkuk city/Iraq. A non -probability (convenience) sampling method was used to recruit healthcare providers from the respiratory care unit. The participants who met the eligibility criteria and agreed to participate were included in the study. A structured self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data that included demographic characteristics and knowledge and awareness of transmissible pathogens. The data were analysed using SPSS version 26. Results: The study showed that most participants were aged 23-27 years. The overall mean score of the respiratory care unit healthcare providers' knowledge was 7.17 out of 10, representing 71.7%, and the overall mean awareness score was 36.71 out of 50, representing 73.4%. Overall, the result showed that participants generally had a good level of knowledge and awareness regarding transmissible pathogens. Conclusion: The respiratory care units' healthcare providers demonstrated good knowledge and awareness of transmissible pathogens. Continuing regular education training programs on transmissible pathogens and preventing infection are recommended to reduce occupational exposure and prevent transmissible pathogens in the respiratory care units.

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