ASSESSMENT OF KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE AND PRACTICES (KAP) TOWARDS HEPATITIS B, C AND HIV AMONG SANITARY STAFF AT A TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL IN MAKKAH CITY, SAUDI ARABIA

Manal Al-Gethamy, Hamed Adetunji, Shazra Abbas*, Duaa Al-Qatabi and Hosham Karar

ABSTRACT

Background: Owing to the nature of their work, sanitary workers in healthcare settings are at an increased risk of acquiring blood borne infections. The purpose of this study was to assess the knowledge, attitude and practices of sanitary staff working in a tertiary care hospital in Saudi Arabia towards the two most common infectious diseases (HIV and Hepatitis B,C) that they may acquire while handling hospital waste. Method: Using a pre-designed, pre-tested questionnaire this cross-sectional survey was conducted between September 2015 till January 2016. Results: The results revealed only 50% of the participants possessed adequate knowledge about HIV and hepatitis (B,C). Slightly more than half had clear idea of blood and body fluids as possible sources of HIV and Hep (B,C) transmission. A high number of participants believed shaking hands, sharing toilets and contaminated water can transmit these infections. Regarding attitudes, majority expressed negative attitudes such as shame and guilt, especially if diagnosed with HIV. In response to practices, >80% participants were not aware of their HIV and Hepatitis screening status. Conclusion: The study findings indicated an urgent need to revise the existing training program for sanitary workers in healthcare settings in Saudi Arabia.

Keywords: HIV, Hepatitis (B C), Sanitary workers, Knowledge, Attitude, Practices.