THE ROLE OF KNOWLEDGE AND ATTITUDE IN THE MANAGEMENT OF LASSA FEVER AMONG HEALTH CARE PROVIDERS IN BINGHAM UNIVERSITY TEACHING HOSPITAL JOS

Abstract

The study examined the role of knowledge and attitude in the management of Lassa fever among healthcare providers in Bingham University Teaching Hospital Jos. A descriptive cross-sectional design was adopted in the study. 115 respondents took part in the study. Data were collected using structured questionnaire. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square statistics. Result of findings showed that majority (57.4%) of the study participants were female with married participants (72.2%). Nursing profession represented (59.1%). Chi-square analysis obtained shows that majority of the participants had good attitude about prevention of Lassa fever. Isolation proved to be the most reported way for curtailing the spread and management of Lassa fever among healthcare workers in BUTH. Based on the above findings recommendations were made; provision of IPC facilities and equipment in adequate amounts to health facilities, training and retraining of healthcare workers should be intensified regularly to improve the adoption of a positive attitude regarding Lassa fever among them. Also, an assessment of the knowledge level of healthcare workers on their knowledge of Lassa fever risks, and its prevention and control measures should be done regularly to identify existing gaps knowledge base of Lassa fever and to channel such intervention strategies, these is because findings from the study has identified that majority of health workers within the study area had good knowledge/attitude regarding Lassa fever management The study therefore recommend that all healthcare providers should be taught on how to appropriately use the personal protective equipment (PPE) as an effective prevention measures for Lassa fever involving, encouraging good community hygiene that will prevent rodents from gaining access to people’s homes and food stuff. The Ministry of Health should increase awareness of Lassa fever in Plateau State and work with the Ministry of Education to introduce Lassa fever lessons in school through health modules especially in primary and secondary schools.