Knowledge among nurses and medical doctors on animal bite management and use of anti-rabies vaccines in the Omusati region, Namibia
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Date
2024
Authors
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Publisher
University of Namibia
Abstract
This study investigated the knowledge of registered nurses and medical doctors on
animal bites management in the Omusati region, Namibia. This includes knowledge
of health care workers regarding wound care, administration of anti-rabies, and
administration of Post-Exposure Prophylaxis using a quantitative research method,
with a sample of 96 nurses and medical doctors. The research reveals significant
knowledge gaps and inconsistencies among registered nurses and medical doctors.
The findings show that while most respondents correctly identified immediate
washing with soap and water as the appropriate first step after an animal bite, there
were misunderstandings about subsequent wound management. Divergent responses
were observed regarding the appropriate vaccination site and schedule, with only a
minority of healthcare workers identifying the deltoid as the correct site and
recognizing the necessity of four doses in the post-exposure regimen. Concerning
eligibility criteria for PEP, a lack of consensus was found among registered nurses and
medical doctors. Misconceptions about Rabies Immunoglobulin administration sites
were also observed, with a significant number incorrectly suggesting the wound site
as the injection site. This study emphasizes the need for improved education, clear
guidelines, and standardized training among healthcare workers to address these issues
and optimize patient care and rabies control efforts. The findings have significant
implications for patient outcomes and public health initiatives aimed at controlling and
preventing the spread of rabies. Further studies are needed to develop effective
educational and training interventions to address these identified gaps and
misconceptions
Description
A thesis submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of master of public health
Keywords
Knowledge, post-exposure prophylaxis, Immunization, Animal bite, Rabies, Rabies immunoglobulin (RIG), Wound category, Namibia