Knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) of medical staff toward behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) in medical institutions in Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region.

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) of medical staff in Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region (Hereinafter referred to as Xinjiang) concerning behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) and to identify associated influencing factors.

METHODS

A cross-sectional survey was conducted from December 2024 to January 2025 across 13 medical institutions in Xinjiang, utilizing the Questionnaire Star platform for data collection. The survey instrument comprised demographic information and self-reported KAP scores related to BPSD.

RESULTS

Among 713 valid responses, after adjustment, psychiatric medical staff had significantly higher knowledge scores than non-psychiatric medical staff (β = 2.548, P < 0.001), with no significant differences in attitude or practice scores. Within the psychiatric cohort, knowledge scores demonstrated a negative correlation with age (r = -0.131, P < 0.001), while attitude scores were inversely associated with professional title (r = -0.137, P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Young psychiatric medical staff have a better understanding of BPSD knowledge. Targeted professional training is essential.