Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices regarding Oral Fluid, Electrolyte, and Energy Management in Acute Nondiarrheal Illnesses among Physicians in India

ABSTRACT

Background: Fluid, electrolytes, and energy (FEE) management is important in the treatment of acute nondiarrheal illnesses. However, the use of FEE drinks in managing such illnesses is not well-documented. Objective: This study aimed to understand physicians’ knowledge, attitude, and practices (KAP) and perceived patient outcomes in treating FEE deficits in acute nondiarrheal illnesses using FEE drinks in India. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional respondent-blinded survey was designed and administered among practicing physicians across various specialties and prescribing statuses in India. KAP among groups of physicians was assessed, and the correlations between knowledge– attitudes, knowledge–practice, and knowledge–perceived outcomes were explored. Results: A total of 494 physicians participated in the study from September to October 2021. Overall, knowledge scores were moderate. Prescribers had a higher average knowledge score and more proactive attitudes and practices as compared to nonprescribers. Most physicians agreed that FEE management recommendations could improve patients’ recovery speed. There were significant positive correlations between knowledge scores and physicians’ attitudes toward the importance of FEE management awareness, the importance of FEE management for patient recovery, and a physician’s perception that FEE drinks improved patients’ recovery time. There was no significant correlation between knowledge score and practices. Conclusion: There may be benefits from improving the knowledge of physicians in India in FEE management and developing guidelines for the use of FEE drinks in acute nondiarrheal illnesses. Further research exploring the knowledge–practice gap and evaluating the clinical benefit of FEE drinks in acute nondiarrheal illnesses should also be undertaken to develop such guidelines.