Assessment of the Awareness and Knowledge on Standard Precaution of Tuberculosis among Primary Healthcare Workers in Edo State, Nigeria

Aim: This study aimed to assess the knowledge and awareness of primary healthcare workers regarding tuberculosis (TB), its prevention and control measures, and standard precautions.

Methodology: This study employed a cross-sectional, descriptive research design to describe the level of knowledge on standard precautions for tuberculosis among primary health care workers. A total of four hundred and fifty (450) primary health care workers from selected Primary Health Centres (PHCs) in Edo State, Nigeria were recruited for this study. Participants were selected using a stratified random sampling method, ensuring representation from different facilities, professions, and geographical locations. A self-administered, structured questionnaire was used for data collection.

Results: A total of 450 questionnaires were distributed, with 435 deemed valid and analyzed. The majority of respondents were female (79.08%), married (55.86%), and nurses (50.80%). The results showed that 69.66% of the respondents correctly identified bacteria as the causative agent of TB, and 95.40% acknowledged that TB is an airborne disease. Respondents also demonstrated knowledge of common symptoms (66.90%), high-risk groups, and types of TB (79.08%). However, only 61.15% recognized that the Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccine is not 100% effective in preventing TB. All respondents identified standard precautions for healthcare workers when dealing with suspected or confirmed TB cases, such as hand hygiene, wearing personal protective equipment, isolating the patient, and disposing of contaminated waste safely. The majority (73.33%) correctly identified the N95 respirator as the recommended mask for healthcare workers treating TB patients. Furthermore, 91.49% mentioned the necessary actions when a TB patient is identified. However, 60.69% of respondents reported that their workplaces' current TB prevention and control programs were not effective, and 91.72% had not received any formal training or education on TB and standard precautions in the past two years.

Conclusion: This study reveals that healthcare professionals possess a baseline understanding of TB and the necessary standard precautions. However, there are notable gaps in knowledge and misconceptions that could impact the effective management and control of TB in healthcare settings.