Health care provider knowledge regarding the prevention of Coxiella burnetii infection (Q fever).

BACKGROUND

Q fever is a serious and contagious disease that has the potential to cause an epidemic. Therefore, this research paper was prepared to inform health workers about the disease in order to prevent the spread of the disease, as happened with the coronavirus. We found that most health workers had little information about Q fever. Coxiella burnetii is the microscopic organism that causes Q fever. The study aimed to assess healthcare provider knowledge regarding the prevention of Coxiella burnetii infection (Q Fever) in Hilla City Hospitals and its associated sociodemographic variables.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

A descriptive correlational study design was conducted in Hilla City Hospitals from November 2023 to March 2024. The study sample, consisting of 95 nurses was chosen according to nonprobability sampling methods. The questionnaire, consisting of 20 items, was validated by experts and tested for reliability through a pilot study. Data collection involved self-reporting, and both descriptive and inferential statistical analyses were applied for data analysis.

RESULTS

The study findings indicate an average age of 26.38 years, with a majority being female (55.8%). About 65.3% were unmarried, 47.4% had Bachelor's degrees, 32.6% had diplomas, and 20.0% had postgraduate degrees. Nurses had experience ranging from 1 to 13 years (average 3.86 years). The study revealed that 73.7% exhibited low knowledge of Q fever, with an average score of 6.57. Gender (P = 0.000) and education level (P = 0.00) significantly predicted knowledge, with females and higher education correlating with greater understanding.

CONCLUSION

It highlights a serious issue of healthcare provider irresponsiveness, in regard to this infection, during the provision of medical care. Male nurses and those who are more educated are more knowledgeable about the subject. The fact that knowledge is greater among those who are educated and male nurses again highlights the need for special education and training of people who fall between these gender and educational categories.