RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE KNOWLEDGE AND PRACTICE TOWARDS RISK FACTORS AND PREVENTION OF TUBERCULOSIS AMONG HEALTHCARE WORKERS

Abstract

Background: Tuberculosis (TB) remains a significant global health threat and a major occupational hazard for healthcare workers (HCWs). Effective TB control relies heavily on HCWs' knowledge and adherence to infection prevention practices, yet gaps in these areas can facilitate nosocomial transmission and compromise patient safety.

Aim: This study aimed to assess the relationship between knowledge and practice towards the risk factors and prevention of tuberculosis among healthcare workers in Lahore, Pakistan.

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted with 145 nursing students and healthcare workers selected via purposive sampling. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and an observational checklist, assessing demographic details, TB knowledge (transmission, symptoms, treatment), and self-reported practices (mask usage, sputum handling). Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 24, employing descriptive statistics.

Results: Participants demonstrated strong knowledge of TB transmission (89.0%) and diagnostic methods (73.1%). However, significant gaps were identified in understanding anti-TB drug side effects (33.1%) and treatment duration (57.2%). While most reported good respiratory hygiene (75.2%), consistent mask usage was lower (62.1%). A critical finding was that 59.3% reported handling sputum specimens while sick, indicating a serious breach of safety protocols.

Conclusion: While foundational knowledge of TB is adequate, critical gaps persist in pharmacovigilance and consistent safe practices. This disconnects between knowledge and practice undermines occupational safety and TB control efforts, highlighting an urgent need for enhanced training focused on treatment protocols and strict enforcement of infection control policies.