فهرست نشریات علمی دسترسی آزاد ایران

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The ongoing coronavirus disease pandemic caused by anovel genetically‑mutated strain of coronavirus has posed a tremendous challenge to healthcareprofessionals, worldwide. This study aimed to explore the healthcare professionals’ knowledge,attitudes, and practices (KAP) related to coronavirus disease in Western Uttar Pradesh and providedata to improve awareness about this disease and remove the knowledge gap, if any, by disseminatingthe updated information to the corona warriors.MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross‑sectional survey was conducted in the form of a structured28‑item online questionnaire using SurveyMonkey software. The qualitative data were codednumerically, and the KAP score was calculated. Pearson Chi‑square test was used to study theassociation, among variables.RESULTS: Of 509 respondents, 296 (58.19%) were males and 213 (41.81%) were females. Themedian age bracket of the sample was 20–40 years. By profession, 255 (50.10%) were doctors,167 (32.74%) were medical students, 80 (15.78%) were other healthcare workers, and a minority 7(1.38%) were the nursing staff. Educational status covered a range from secondary (2.01%) to seniorsecondary (17.51%) to bachelors and equivalent (29.18%) to masters and equivalent (51.31%). Theaverage KAP scores were 54%, and the score was highest among doctors as compared to otherhealthcare professionals (P < 0.001).CONCLUSIONS: In light of these study findings, we conclude that healthcare professionals are awareof coronavirus disease. However, the overall KAP score regarding its clinical course, preventivestrategies, and judicious use of personal protective equipment was less than expected. There isa need to address all misconceptions and empower the corona warriors with the right informationthrough effective mass media communication and reinforcement through seminars and workshopsin the medical institutes and hospitals. The healthcare professionals are a cornerstone to preventthe nosocomial and community spread of this pandemic.