Ahmad Homoud Al-Hazmi
Al Jouf University, Saudi Arabia
Title: Knowledge, attitudes and practice of primary healthcare physicians concerning the occupational risks of hepatitis B virus in Al Jouf Province, Saudi Arabia
Biography
Biography: Ahmad Homoud Al-Hazmi
Abstract
Background: Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a well-recognized occupational risk for all healthcare workers (HCWs) worldwide. Aim: This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes and practices of primary healthcare (PHC) physicians regarding the occupational risks of HBV. Method: In this cross-sectional study, a questionnaire survey was administered to 145 physicians of primary care centers in the Al Jouf Province of Saudi Arabia. The questionnaire contained questions concerning the knowledge base, attitudes and practices of physicians regarding the occupational risks of HBV. Result: The response rate of 82.8% yielded 120 questionnaires for analysis. The majority of physicians surveyed 99 (82.5%) felt at high risk of contracting and spreading HBV. The vast majority, 115 (95.6%) considered the HBV vaccine safe for all ages. Of the total 101 (84.2%) were vaccinated. Only 44 (36.7%) physicians recognized that HBV is resistant to alcohol and to some detergents. During surgical procedures, only a minority of the physicians uses double gloves and wears glasses. Almost all physicians were willing to subscribe to regular training programs concerning HBV. Conclusions: A lack of knowledge was determined and the practices of our physicians concerning the occupational risks of HBV appeared inappropriate. More education focusing on HBV is recommended.