ABSTRACT
Radiological examinations have played a crucial role in the identification and management of COVID-19 patients. Therefore, knowledge and awareness of infection control among healthcare workers in radiology departments are important to prevent disease transmission. This study aimed to assess the knowledge and practice of infection control for COVID-19 among healthcare workers in radiology departments in Saudi Arabia. A cross-sectional, online questionnaire was administered among healthcare workers in radiology departments in Saudi Arabia in May 2020. The questionnaire consisted of demographic characteristics, profession, knowledge of infection control for COVID-19, and good practice of infection control measures for COVID-19 in radiology departments. A descriptive statistical analysis and chi-square test were performed using SPSS software. A total of 234 (91%) of healthcare workers replied that they have good knowledge about the precautions needed during the examination of positive COVID-19 cases in radiology departments, and 216 (84%) replied that they knew the necessary precautions when using portable X-ray machine. Moreover, 191 (>74%) of those surveyed agreed that wearing personal protective equipment and following the CDC sequence. There was significant association between profession and good clinical practices in radiology departments regarding COVID-19. Such knowledge could limit the spread of COVID-19 among the healthcare workers in radiology departments.
ABSTRACT
Introduction. In the wake of the current situation of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is important to strictly follow all the standard infection prevention and control measures (SICPs) of the World Health Organization (WHO). SICPs is a scientific approach and practical solution designed to prevent harm caused by infection to patients and health workers. Objective. This study aimed to evaluate the knowledge and practice of standard measures of IPCs among the staff of the radiology departments in Sudan. Material and methods. A qualitative survey was conducted using a questionnaire distributed via email among radiology staff in thirty-three different hospitals in Sudan. The questionnaire was developed by the authors, with help from scientific literature to cover key areas of knowledge, awareness and attitude regarding infection prevention and control guidelines of COVID-19. Results. A total of 68.3% of the study group knew the guidelines established by WHO to deal with COVID-19 patients or suspected cases. 65% of the respondents had previous training in hand hygiene and about 75% of them had sufficient knowledge in hand hygiene, observed during their routine clinical practices. 69.2% of respondents used portable imaging equipment to limit the transportation of COVID-19 patients and 69.2% were aware that the patients were wearing a surgical mask when entering and leaving the radiology department. Conclusions. The radiology departments staff in Sudan is fairly aware of SICPs. They are strictly following standard guidelines for infection, prevention and management of COVID-19 issued by WHO.