Knowledge, Attitude and Practice (KAP) of the Prevention of Sexually Transmitted Infections Among Non Health Care Female Hospital Workers

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are a public health problem and hospital workers may serve as a repository of knowledge for the lay public and for themselves in the management and treatment of STIs.

METHODOLOGY: A cross sectional survey was carried out to evaluate the knowledge, attitude and practice of prevention of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among female hospital workers in Ogun State. A 28-item questionnaire consisting of open and close ended questions was issued to the respondents. The questionnaire contained information on demographics, knowledge, attitude and practice of management and prevention of STIs.

RESULTS: A total of 100 questionnaires were analysed. The average age+SD were 28.76+7.52. Sixty five percent had post- secondary education while 99% had heard of STIs. Radio (62%) and books (59%) were their major source of information. A 100% of them knew that HIV/AIDS as a sexually transmitted infection and 90% knew the causes of STIs. Only 47% and 22% of the respondents knew that adults and infants respectively could contact STIs. Only 12% felt they could contact STIs and 79% felt that being faithful would prevent one from contacting STIs, 87% knew that STIs could be treated. The differences in their level of education and their years of working in the hospital on their knowledge, attitude and practice were not statistically significant respectively.

CONCLUSION: The study showed that the respondents had knowledge of STIs however this knowledge is inadequate as some misconceptions still exist among them and hence the need for awareness and health education programmes.


Keywords: Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs), KAP (Knowledge, Attitude and Practice), Female Hospital Workers.

NQJHM Vol. 16 (4) 2006: pp. 132-137